Denoting mimicking of action of the sympathetic system. SEE ALSO: adrenomimetic. [sympatho- + G. mimikos, imitating]
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sym·pa·tho·mi·met·ic -mə-'met-ik, -(.)mī- adj simulating sympathetic nervous action in physiological effect compare PARASYMPATHOMIMETIC, SYMPATHOLYTIC
sympathomimetic n a sympathomimetic agent
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adj.
having the effect of stimulating the sympathetic nervous system. The actions of sympathomimetic drugs are adrenergic (resembling those of noradrenaline). Alpha-adrenergic stimulants (alpha agonists) stimulate alpha receptors. They are vasoconstrictor and include ephedrine and phenylephrine, which constrict blood vessels in the mucous membranes and are used in nasal decongestants; metaraminol; and apraclonidine and brimonidine, which are used in the treatment of glaucoma. Beta-adrenergic stimulants (beta agonists) such as salbutamol, salmeterol, and terbutaline relax bronchial smooth muscle and are used as bronchodilator. Some beta agonists (e.g. dobutamine) stimulate beta receptors in the heart and are therefore used for their inotropic effects. Others, including ritodrine (Yutopar), relax uterine muscle and are used in the treatment of premature labour.
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sym·pa·tho·mi·met·ic (sim″pə-tho-mi-metґik) [sympathetic + -mimetic] 1. mimicking the effects of impulses conveyed by adrenergic postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system. 2. an agent that produces effects similar to those of impulses conveyed by adrenergic postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system. See also adrenergic.Medical dictionary. 2011.