contraindication

noun

con·​tra·​in·​di·​ca·​tion ˌkän-trə-ˌin-də-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce contraindication (audio)
: something (such as a symptom or condition) that makes a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable

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For doctors, an indication is a symptom or circumstance that makes a particular medical treatment desirable. Serious anxiety, for example, is often an indication for prescribing a tranquilizer. A contraindication, then, is a symptom or condition that makes a treatment risky, such as taking certain other medications at the same time. Drugs and conditions that are contraindicated for a medication are listed on its label, and reeled off at high speed in TV ads. Patients can guard against the dangers of drug interaction by reading labels carefully and making sure their doctors know what else they're currently taking.

Examples of contraindication in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Consulting healthcare professionals and conducting thorough research can assist individuals in making informed choices and understanding the potential interactions or contraindications associated with CBD oil. Cbd Scout, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024 For most people, either birth control pill will be safe, but the progestin-only pill in particular has very few contraindications to it. Jacqueline Howard, CNN, 4 Mar. 2024 In this article, learn about the dosage, uses, and ongoing research underway for JAK inhibitors available in the United States, as well as common side effects, contraindications, and warnings. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2024 Ways Parents Can Avoid Common Medication Mistakes Side Effects of Benadryl Parents Should Know Though Benadryl is generally considered safe for kids 2 years and older when given in the correct dose for their weight, there are side effects and contraindications to be aware of. Emily Shiffer, Parents, 2 Nov. 2023 Healthcare professionals can help determine if there are any contraindications or potential adverse effects specific to your situation. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 14 Aug. 2023 Your healthcare provider will also be able to advise you on any precautions or contraindications associated with generic Viagra. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Oct. 2023 There are few absolute contraindications to heel spur surgery. Stuart Hershman, Verywell Health, 27 June 2023 Safety Profile: Assess the safety of the alternative medication by reviewing its side effect profile, contraindications, and interactions with other drugs. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'contraindication.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1623, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contraindication was in 1623

Dictionary Entries Near contraindication

Cite this Entry

“Contraindication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contraindication. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

contraindication

noun
con·​tra·​in·​di·​ca·​tion -ˌin-də-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce contraindication (audio)
: something (as a symptom or condition) that makes a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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