captopril
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A synthetic drug that acts as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by blocking the formation of a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict, resulting in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). It is primarily used as a medication to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and congestive heart failure.
Usage Examples
- The doctor prescribed captopril to help manage her patient's hypertension.
- Captopril is often part of a treatment regimen for congestive heart failure.
- A common side effect of taking captopril can be a persistent dry cough.
Advanced Usage
- Therapeutic Use: In clinical contexts, captopril is described as a first-generation ACE inhibitor. Its use is monitored due to potential effects on kidney function and potassium levels.
- The cardiologist adjusted the captopril dosage after reviewing the patient's renal function tests.
Variants and Related Words
- ACE inhibitor (Noun): The broader class of drugs to which captopril belongs. Other examples include enalapril and lisinopril.
- Antihypertensive (Noun/Adjective): A substance or drug used to lower high blood pressure. Captopril is an antihypertensive agent.
- Vasodilator (Noun): A drug that causes widening of blood vessels. Captopril has a vasodilatory effect.
Synonyms
- Capoten: This is the primary trade name for the drug captopril.
- ACE inhibitor: While not a direct synonym, it is the categorical term.
Notes on Meaning
This word has a single, specific meaning in modern English, referring exclusively to the pharmaceutical compound. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses.
Noun
- a drug (trade name Capoten) that blocks the formation of angiotensin in the kidneys resulting in vasodilation; used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure