papaverine

noun

pa·​pav·​er·​ine pə-ˈpa-və-ˌrēn How to pronounce papaverine (audio)
-ˈpav-rən,
-ˈpa-və-
: a crystalline alkaloid C20H21NO4 found in opium or made synthetically that is used usually in the form of its hydrochloride chiefly as an antispasmodic for its ability to relax smooth muscle

Examples of papaverine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The wife had donated her organs, and papaverine had been used. Faye Flam, Philly.com, 6 Sep. 2017

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Latin papaver poppy

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of papaverine was in 1848

Dictionary Entries Near papaverine

Cite this Entry

“Papaverine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/papaverine. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

papaverine

noun
pa·​pav·​er·​ine pə-ˈpav-ə-ˌrēn How to pronounce papaverine (audio) -(ə-)rən How to pronounce papaverine (audio)
: a crystalline alkaloid C20H21NO4 that constitutes about one percent of opium, that is made synthetically from vanillin, and that is used usually in the form of its hydrochloride C20H21NO4·HCl especially as a vasodilator because of its ability to relax smooth muscle

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