Edrophonium
Edrophonium
Edrophonium (pronounced as ed-ro-foe-nee-um) is a medication primarily used in the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis, a long-term neuromuscular disease. It is also used to reverse the effects of certain types of muscle relaxants during anesthesia.
Etymology
The term "Edrophonium" is derived from its chemical structure. The prefix "edro-" is derived from the Greek word "edros," meaning "seat," and the suffix "-phonium" is a common ending for quaternary ammonium cations.
Usage
Edrophonium is used in a test called the Edrophonium test, also known as the Tensilon test, to diagnose myasthenia gravis. It works by blocking the action of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits signals in the nervous system.
Related Terms
- Myasthenia gravis: A chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles.
- Acetylcholinesterase: An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter.
- Acetylcholine: A neurotransmitter in the nervous system.
- Edrophonium test: A diagnostic test for myasthenia gravis.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Edrophonium include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, increased salivation, and increased sweating. In rare cases, it can cause slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and breathing difficulties.
Precautions
Edrophonium should be used with caution in patients with heart disease, asthma, or a history of seizures. It should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Edrophonium or any of its components.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Edrophonium
- Wikipedia's article - Edrophonium
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