Antidote
- Pronunciation
- /an-ti-doht/
- Category
- Treatment
- Singular
- Antidote
- Plural
- Antidotes
Definition
A substance used to counteract poison or the effects of poisoning, especially in the context of insecticidal or venomous poisoning.
Etymology
From Greek 'antidotos', meaning 'given as a remedy against'.
Example
An antidote for organophosphate poisoning is atropine.
Synonyms
- Counterpoison
- Remedy
- Neutralizer
Related Terms
- Poisoning
- Toxemia
Usage Notes
Antidotes can be specific to different types of poisons and venoms, and often require prompt administration.