Sympathomimetic drug

Definition

A sympathomimetic drug is a type of medication that mimics or enhances the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, widened airways, and other responses typically associated with "fight or flight" reactions. These drugs can be used in treatments for conditions like asthma, cardiac arrest, and nasal congestion.

Related terms

Adrenergic receptors: Proteins located on cells that respond to adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine), which are stimulated by sympathomimetic drugs.

Fight or flight response: The body's automatic response to perceived threat or stress, involving increased heart rate, energy mobilization, and alertness, all of which are enhanced by sympathomimetic drugs.

Bronchodilator: A type of medication that relaxes bronchial muscles resulting in expanded airway passages, often achieved through sympathomimetic drug action for treating asthma or COPD