Definition

A type of medication that acts as a bronchodilator, helping to open up the airways in the lungs.

Example

The doctor prescribed isoproterenol to help the patient breathe easier during an asthma attack.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of isoproterenol?

Yeah, I think it's used for asthma, right?

Exactly! It's a bronchodilator that helps open up airways.

That's really interesting. I didn't know it had such a specific use.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Isoproterenol is formed from the prefix "iso-" (meaning equal or identical), the root "proteron" (from Greek, meaning earlier or before), and the suffix "-ol" (indicating an alcohol or hydroxyl group). The combination suggests a compound that is an alcohol derivative related to a previously known compound, specifically a synthetic version of a catecholamine.

Memory Tip

Think of 'iso-' meaning equal and 'proteron' suggesting something that comes before — this helps you remember that isoproterenol is a synthetic version of a compound that acts similarly to natural catecholamines.

Visually Confused Words