Glossary A
Glossary A
Antidepressant drugs refer to drugs used primarily in the treatment of mood disorders, especially depression and anxiety.
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) refers to hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland that promotes water retention by the kidney.
Antigen refers to foreign material that enters the body, including bacteria and parasites.
Antigens refer to the unique proteins found on the surface of bacteria; these proteins are what enable the immune system to recognize the bacteria as foreign substances.
Antihistamines refer to common over-the-counter drugs with decongestant effects; drugs that counter the effects of histamine, a compound that causes dilatation of capillaries, contraction of smooth muscle, and stimulation of gastric acid secretion and that is released during allergic reactions.