Additive
Additive
Additive (/əˈdɪtɪv/), from the Latin additivus, meaning 'that which is added', is a term used in various fields of medicine. It generally refers to a substance added to another to enhance its effects, improve its stability, or increase its efficacy.
In Pharmacology
In pharmacology, an additive is a drug or substance that enhances the effect of another drug when both are administered together. This is different from a synergistic effect, where the combined effect of two drugs is greater than the sum of their individual effects.
In Nutrition
In nutrition, additives are substances added to food to improve its taste, appearance, or shelf-life. These can include preservatives, colorants, and flavor enhancers. Some additives are natural, while others are synthetic. The use of food additives is regulated by health authorities to ensure safety.
In Medical Devices
In the field of medical devices, additive refers to the use of additive manufacturing or 3D printing techniques to create devices such as prosthetics, implants, and surgical instruments. This technology allows for the production of devices with complex geometries and personalized designs.
Related Terms
- Adjuvant: A substance that enhances the body's immune response to an antigen.
- Excipient: A substance added to a drug to aid in its delivery or absorption.
- Potentiation: The increase in the effect of a drug caused by another drug or substance.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Additive
- Wikipedia's article - Additive
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