Anesthetics
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Anesthetics
Anesthetics (pronounced: an-uh-sthet-iks) are a group of drugs used to induce a temporary loss of sensation or awareness. They are often used during surgical procedures to prevent pain and discomfort.
Etymology
The term "anesthetic" is derived from the Greek words "an-" meaning "without" and "aisthesis" meaning "sensation".
Types of Anesthetics
There are two main types of anesthetics: Local anesthetics and General anesthetics.
- Local anesthetics are used to numb a specific area of the body. They are often used for minor procedures like dental work or skin biopsies. Examples include Lidocaine and Bupivacaine.
- General anesthetics are used to induce a state of unconsciousness. They are used for major surgeries and procedures. Examples include Propofol, Sevoflurane, and Ketamine.
Related Terms
- Analgesia - A state of pain relief; an aim of many anesthetic drugs.
- Sedation - Inducing a calm, relaxed state.
- Induction - The process of initiating general anesthesia.
- Recovery - The period after anesthesia where the effects gradually wear off.
See Also
- Anesthesiology - The branch of medicine specializing in the use of anesthetics.
- Anesthesiologist - A medical professional who specializes in administering anesthetics.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anesthetics
- Wikipedia's article - Anesthetics
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