VOMICINE Meaning and
Definition
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Vomicine is a noun that refers to a toxic alkaloid compound found in ipecac root. It belongs to the class of plant-derived alkaloids known as emetics, which are substances that induce vomiting. Vomicine is typically obtained through the extraction and purification of ipecac alkaloids.
Chemically, vomicine is a white, crystalline substance with a bitter taste. It acts directly on the chemoreceptor trigger zone located in the medulla oblongata of the brain, leading to a stimulation of the vomiting reflex. Due to its emetic properties, vomicine has been used for centuries as an effective treatment for various conditions involving toxic substance ingestion or food poisoning. It is commonly administered orally, causing rapid and forceful expulsion of gastric contents.
The use of vomicine, however, is mainly limited to medical settings or under professional guidance due to its potentially adverse effects. Overdose or misuse can result in severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or esophageal damage. Therefore, the use of vomicine as an emetic agent should be done judiciously and only when necessary, under proper medical supervision.
In summary, vomicine is a toxic alkaloid compound found in ipecac root that possesses emetic properties. Its use as an emetic agent is primarily restricted to medical situations, as it can induce vomiting through direct stimulation of the vomiting reflex.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VOMICINE
- comicine
- bomicine
- gomicine
- fomicine
- vimicine
- vkmicine
- vlmicine
- vpmicine
- v0micine
- v9micine
- vonicine
- vokicine
- vojicine
- vomucine
- vomjcine
- vomkcine
- vomocine
- vom9cine
- vom8cine
- vomixine
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