Definition

A chemical substance that is a white powder, used to help calm people, relax muscles, and prevent seizures.

Example

The doctor prescribed meprobamate to help manage the patient's anxiety.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of meprobamate?

Yeah, isn't it a type of tranquilizer?

Exactly! It's used to help with anxiety and muscle relaxation.

I wonder if it has any side effects, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Meprobamate is derived from the combination of 'me-' (a prefix used in chemical nomenclature) and 'probamate' (which comes from 'probarbital', a barbiturate derivative). The 'pro-' prefix means before or in favor of, and 'barbital' refers to a class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants. Therefore, meprobamate can be understood as a compound related to the barbiturate class of drugs, used for its sedative properties.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pro-' meaning in favor of or before, and 'barbital' relating to a class of sedative drugs. This helps you remember that meprobamate is a drug that acts in favor of calming the nervous system.

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