First Known Use: 1864
Dictionary
physostigmine
noun phy·so·stig·mine \ˌfī-sə-ˈstig-ˌmēn\
Definition of PHYSOSTIGMINE
: a crystalline tasteless alkaloid C15H21N3O2 from the Calabar bean that is used in medicine especially in the form of its salicylate for its anticholinesterase activity
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Origin of PHYSOSTIGMINE
International Scientific Vocabulary, from New Latin Physostigma, genus of vines that bear the Calabar bean
Medical Dictionary
physostigmine
noun phy·so·stig·mine \ˌfī-sə-ˈstig-ˌmēn\
Medical Definition of PHYSOSTIGMINE
: a tasteless crystalline alkaloid with anticholinesterase activity that is obtained from Calabar beans and is used parenterally in the form of its salicylate C15H21N3O2·C7H6O3 especially to reverse the toxic effects of an anticholinergic agent (as atropine) and topically in the form of its sulfate (C15H21N3O2)2·H2SO3 as a miotic in the treatment of glaucoma—called also eserine
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