vasodilator

noun

va·​so·​di·​la·​tor ˌvā-zō-dī-ˈlā-tər How to pronounce vasodilator (audio) -ˈdī-ˌlā- How to pronounce vasodilator (audio)
: an agent (such as a parasympathetic nerve fiber or a drug) that induces or initiates vasodilation

Examples of vasodilator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rosemary is a vasodilator, according to VeryWell Health, which can improve blood flow — this has led researchers to believe the ingredient stimulates hair follicles and improves scalp health. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 12 Dec. 2024 Alcohol is a vasodilator, which causes blood vessels to expand and can lead to a temporary flushing of the skin (especially on your face). Sanjana Ray, Glamour, 12 Dec. 2024 Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that enlarges blood vessels, allowing more oxygen to be delivered to muscles. Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 31 Oct. 2024 Minoxidil is a vasodilator, whereas finasteride is a 5a-reductase inhibitor.23 Minoxidil is an over-the-counter (OTC) topical product for males and females to apply to the scalp.43 Minoxidil also has a tablet form, which is used for high blood pressure. Ross Phan, Pharmd, Bcacp, Bcgp, Bcps, Verywell Health, 3 Oct. 2024 Some examples of natural vasodilators include:95 Ginger Ginkgo biloba Glycine propionyl-L-carnitine (GPLC) L-arginine L-citrulline Nitric oxide Turmeric These substances and others can have a vasodilatory effect, but controlling the exact amount of vasodilation can be challenging. Christopher Lee, Verywell Health, 14 Aug. 2024 If that doesn’t work, then maybe a beta blocker is used to reduce heart activity, or a vasodilator to control the diameter of vessels. Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 25 Jan. 2024 Analgesics dull sensation, anti-inflammatories inhibit irritation, and vasodilators and anticoagulants keep the blood flowing. Richard S. Ostfeld, STAT, 31 July 2023 The repeated and completely transient nature of our patient’s symptoms supports the fact that embolism was not involved, whereas the resolution of the symptoms after initiation of the treatment with the vasodilator enalapril supports vasoconstriction as the cause of transient blindness. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 2 May 2014

Word History

Etymology

vaso- + dilator, after French vaso-dilateur

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vasodilator was in 1881

Dictionary Entries Near vasodilator

Cite this Entry

“Vasodilator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vasodilator. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

vasodilator

1 of 2 noun
va·​so·​di·​la·​tor ˌvā-zō-ˈdī-ˌlāt-ər How to pronounce vasodilator (audio)
: an agent (as a parasympathetic nerve fiber or a drug) that induces or initiates vasodilation

vasodilator

2 of 2 adjective
: relating to, inducing, or initiating vasodilation
a drug with a vasodilator effect

More from Merriam-Webster on vasodilator

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!