Nikethamide
Nikethamide
Nikethamide (pronounced: ni-keth-a-mide) is a stimulant which primarily affects the respiratory cycle. It is often used as an antidote for barbiturate or tranquilizer overdose.
Etymology
The term "Nikethamide" is derived from the Greek words "nike" meaning victory, and "amide" referring to its chemical structure containing the amide group.
Usage
Nikethamide is a respiratory stimulant. Traditionally, it was used as a stimulant in many over-the-counter cold and flu medications. However, due to its potential for abuse, it has been largely replaced by safer and more effective drugs. It is still occasionally used as an antidote for barbiturate or tranquilizer overdose.
Related Terms
- Respiratory stimulant: A type of drug that increases respiratory rate and depth.
- Barbiturate: A class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants.
- Tranquilizer: A drug that reduces tension or anxiety; promotes relaxation.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Nikethamide can cause side effects. These may include restlessness, nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as seizures or irregular heart rhythms.
Precautions
Nikethamide should not be used in people with a history of seizures, heart disease, or high blood pressure. It should also not be used in people who are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.
Interactions
Nikethamide may interact with other medications, including other respiratory stimulants, barbiturates, and tranquilizers. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting Nikethamide.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nikethamide
- Wikipedia's article - Nikethamide
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski