HYDRAGOGUE Meaning and
Definition
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Hydragogue is a term that originates from the combination of two Greek words, "hydra" meaning water and "agoguein" meaning to lead forth. In the medical context, hydragogue refers to a substance or medication that has the ability to promote the elimination or secretion of excess water or fluids from the body, particularly from the intestines.
Hydragogue agents work mainly by increasing the osmotic pressure within the intestines, thus attracting and retaining more water in the intestinal lumen. This mechanism enhances the movement of fluids from the bloodstream to the intestinal tract, ultimately resulting in increased fecal water content and subsequent augmented bowel movements.
Hydragogues can be found in various forms, such as natural substances like certain herbs or synthetic medications. They are often utilized in the management of edema, a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fluid in various body tissues. By promoting fluid elimination, hydragogues can help reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms associated with edema.
However, it is important to note that the use of hydragogues must be carefully monitored and regulated, as excessive fluid loss can lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. Therefore, their administration usually requires medical supervision to ensure safety and appropriate dosage.
Hydragogue agents play a significant role in medical treatments where excess fluid removal is necessary, making them valuable tools in the management of certain conditions requiring diuresis or fluid elimination.
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Producing a discharge of watery fluid; noting a class of cathartics which cause a serous flux into the intestine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A medicine which produces a rapid discharge of fluid from the body.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HYDRAGOGUE
- gydragogue
- bydragogue
- nydragogue
- jydragogue
- uydragogue
- yydragogue
- htdragogue
- hgdragogue
- hhdragogue
- hudragogue
- h7dragogue
- h6dragogue
- hysragogue
- hyxragogue
- hycragogue
- hyfragogue
- hyrragogue
- hyeragogue
- hydeagogue
Etymology of HYDRAGOGUE
The word "Hydragogue" originates from the Latin term "hydragogus", which directly comes from the Greek term "ὑδραγωγός" (hydragogos).
In Greek, "ὑδραγωγός" is composed of two elements: "ὕδωρ" (hydor), meaning "water", and "ἄγω" (ago), meaning "to lead" or "to bring".
Combined, "ὑδραγωγός" refers to something that "leads" or "brings" water. In medical terminology, "Hydragogue" specifically refers to a substance or a medical treatment that promotes the removal of water from the body, particularly through increased urine production.
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