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Atropine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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atropine

[หˆรฆtrษ™หŒpiหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medicine, pharmacology

Atropine is a tropane alkaloid that is derived from the Atropa belladonna plant, commonly known as deadly nightshade. It acts as an anticholinergic agent, blocking the action of acetylcholine at parasympathetic sites in smooth muscle, secretory glands, and the central nervous system. Atropine is used clinically to increase heart rate in bradycardia, as well as to reduce salivation during surgeries. Additionally, it can be employed as an antidote to certain types of poisoning, especially from organophosphate insecticides.

Synonyms

belladonna, tropine.

Examples of usage

  • Atropine is commonly used in emergency medicine for heart conditions.
  • The anesthesiologist administered atropine before the surgery.
  • Atropine can help in cases of poisoning with certain chemicals.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Uses

  • Atropine has been used since the Middle Ages when it was extracted from belladonna for medicinal purposes.
  • In the 19th century, it became popular in medicine as a treatment for various ailments, particularly for heart rate issues.

Medicine

  • Atropine is commonly used in emergency medicine to treat bradycardia, a condition where the heart beats too slowly.
  • It's also utilized during surgeries to reduce saliva production and prevent complications.

Science

  • Atropine is classified as an anticholinergic drug, meaning it blocks certain nerve signals in the body.
  • It can cross the blood-brain barrier, affecting the central nervous system and has been researched for use in treating nerve agent poisoning.

Pop Culture

  • Atropine is often referenced in novels and media, where its effects are dramatized in medical emergencies.
  • It has appeared in video games and films as a plot device involving medical or espionage scenarios.

Origin of 'atropine'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'atropine' comes from a plant called 'Atropa belladonna', which means 'beautiful lady' in Italian.
  • It is derived from the ancient Greek goddess Atropos, who decided when people would die, linking it to the plantโ€™s toxic nature.

The word 'atropine' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the name of the Atropa belladonna plant, where it was first isolated. The name 'Atropa' comes from 'Atropos,' one of the three Fates in Greek mythology, who determines the length of human life by cutting the thread of life. This connection emphasizes the plant's lethal properties, as it has been known to cause death if ingested in sufficient quantities. The suffix '-ine' is often used in chemistry to denote compounds. Atropine has historically been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties, including its use as a poison as well as a remedy. Its role in modern medicine highlights its importance in pharmacology and toxicology.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,679, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.