Antipyretic

Antipyretic

Antipyretic (pronunciation: an·ti·py·ret·ic /ˌan(t)ēpīˈredik/) is a type of medication that is used to prevent or reduce fever by lowering the body temperature from a raised state. The term is derived from the Greek words 'anti', meaning against, and 'pyretos', meaning fire or fever.

Etymology

The term 'Antipyretic' is derived from the Greek words 'anti', meaning against, and 'pyretos', meaning fire or fever. This is reflective of the drug's primary function, which is to combat or prevent fevers.

Usage

Antipyretics are commonly used in the treatment of fever, a symptom of many medical conditions including influenza, malaria, and COVID-19. They work by acting on the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that controls body temperature, causing it to reset the body's temperature to a lower, normal level.

Types of Antipyretics

There are several types of antipyretic drugs, including:

• Acetaminophen: Also known as paracetamol, it is one of the most commonly used antipyretic drugs. It is often used in combination with other drugs to treat pain and fever.

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These include drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin, which not only reduce fever but also have anti-inflammatory effects.

• Corticosteroids: These are used in severe cases of fever, especially when associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Side Effects

Like all medications, antipyretics can have side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, liver damage. It is important to use these medications as directed by a healthcare professional.

See Also

• Fever
• Inflammation
• Pain management

External Links

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Antipyretic
• Wikipedia's article - Antipyretic

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