What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vasoactive
Example
The patient was given a vasoactive drug to increase blood flow to their heart. [vasoactive: adjective]
Example
Vasoactive substances can cause either vasodilation or vasoconstriction depending on the type of receptor they bind to. [vasoactive: adjective]
Example
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a neuropeptide that regulates smooth muscle relaxation and blood vessel dilation. [vasoactive: adjective]
vasodilator
Example
Nitroglycerin is a common vasodilator used to treat angina and heart failure. [vasodilator: noun]
Example
Exercise is a natural vasodilator that helps to improve blood flow and circulation. [vasodilator: adjective]
Example
Patients with pulmonary hypertension may benefit from vasodilator therapy to reduce pressure in the lungs. [vasodilator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vasodilator is a more common term than vasoactive in medical contexts, as it specifically refers to a type of medication or substance used to treat cardiovascular conditions. Vasoactive is a more general term that is less commonly used in medical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vasoactive and vasodilator?
Both vasoactive and vasodilator are formal terms used primarily in medical contexts. However, vasodilator is more commonly used in medical settings and is therefore more likely to be encountered in formal writing or speech.
