TACRINE Meaning and
Definition
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Tacrine, also known by its chemical name tetrahydroaminoacridine, is a synthetic compound that acts as a reversible inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Acetylcholinesterase is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and inhibiting its activity can lead to increased levels of acetylcholine in the brain.
Tacrine gained significance in the medical field due to its potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of cognitive disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease. By inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, tacrine increases the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, which can enhance cognitive functions such as memory and learning.
However, it is important to note that tacrine has shown limited effectiveness and significant side effects, including liver toxicity, which has led to its withdrawal from several markets. Tacrine is typically administered orally and is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, but it has a short half-life, leading to the need for frequent dosing throughout the day.
Despite its limitations, tacrine paved the way for the development of more effective acetylcholinesterase inhibitors that are currently used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, such as donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine.
Common Misspellings for TACRINE
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