physostigmine

[ fahy-soh-stig-meen, -min ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. an alkaloid, C 1 5 H 2 1 N 3 O 2 , used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease to raise the level of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and also as a miotic in glaucoma.

physostigmine

/ ˌfaɪsəʊˈstɪɡmɪn; ˌfaɪsəʊˈstɪɡmiːn /

noun

1. an alkaloid found in the Calabar bean used esp in eye drops to reduce pressure inside the eyeball. Formula: C 15 H 21 N 3 O 2 Also calledeserine

Word History and Origins

Origin of physostigmine¹

1860–65; < New Latin Physostigm ( a ) genus of plants yielding the alkaloid ( physo-, stigma ) + -ine ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of physostigmine¹

C19: from New Latin Physostigma genus name, from Greek phusa bladder + stigma mark

Example Sentences

This contact said the agent was treatable with Visostgman-Physostigmine, Alberodquisan, and Vitamin B6.

From The Daily Beast

After subcutaneous or local application, a dilatation neutralised by physostigmine in moderate doses.

From Project Gutenberg

In most cases it will be necessary to identify physostigmine by its physiological activity, as well as by its chemical characters.

From Project Gutenberg

Physostigmine contracts the iris to a point; the action is quite local, and is confined to the eye to which it is applied.

From Project Gutenberg

Each of these contains one-thousandth part of a grain of physostigmine sulphate, a quantity which is perfectly efficient.

From Project Gutenberg

The respiration is at first accelerated by a dose of physostigmine, but is afterwards slowed and ultimately arrested.

From Project Gutenberg