vasoconstrictor Definition
- 1a drug or other agent that causes constriction of the blood vessels, thereby reducing blood flow
- 2a nerve that causes constriction of the blood vessels
Using vasoconstrictor: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "vasoconstrictor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Epinephrine is a vasoconstrictor that is used to treat severe allergic reactions.
Example
The sympathetic nervous system releases norepinephrine, a vasoconstrictor, in response to stress.
Example
Cocaine is a powerful vasoconstrictor that can cause heart attacks and strokes.
vasoconstrictor Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for vasoconstrictor
- constrictor
- pressor
Phrases with vasoconstrictor
vasoconstrictor response
the narrowing of blood vessels in response to various stimuli, such as cold temperatures or stress
Example
The vasoconstrictor response helps to maintain body temperature by reducing heat loss through the skin.
medications that are used to narrow blood vessels and increase blood pressure
Example
Vasoconstrictor drugs are often used during surgery to reduce bleeding and maintain blood pressure.
vasoconstrictor nerve
a nerve that causes constriction of blood vessels
Example
The sympathetic nervous system contains vasoconstrictor nerves that regulate blood pressure and blood flow.
Origins of vasoconstrictor
from Latin 'vaso-' meaning 'vessel' + 'constrictor', from 'constrictus', past participle of 'constringere', meaning 'to compress'
Summary: vasoconstrictor in Brief
A vasoconstrictor [vey-soh-kuh n-strik-ter] is a drug or nerve that causes constriction of blood vessels, reducing blood flow. Examples include epinephrine, which is used to treat severe allergic reactions, and cocaine, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. The vasoconstrictor response is a natural process that helps to maintain body temperature, while vasoconstrictor drugs are used during surgery to reduce bleeding and maintain blood pressure.
