Definition

A yellow powder that was used in the past to treat certain infections, especially syphilis and yaws. It contains arsenic and is known to be toxic.

Example

Doctors used arsphenamine to treat syphilis before more effective medications were developed.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of arsphenamine?

Yeah, I think it was used a long time ago for treating syphilis.

Exactly! It's interesting how medical treatments have evolved since then.

True! It's amazing how far we've come in medicine.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Arsphenamine is formed from "arsenicum" (from Latin, meaning arsenic) and "phenamine" (derived from the Greek "phaino" meaning to show or appear, combined with the suffix "-amine" indicating an amine compound). The word refers to a compound containing arsenic that is used in medicine, particularly for treating syphilis, thus showing its medicinal properties.

Memory Tip

Think of 'arsenic' as the base element in this compound, and 'phenamine' suggests it shows or has effects in medicine. This helps you remember that arsphenamine is a medicinal compound related to arsenic.

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