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prettygoodwordprodrug (PROH-druhg) - n., a pharmacologically inactive substance that is converted in the body by metabolic processes into a pharmacologically active drug.
Essentially, a precursor chemical. For example, acetylsalicylic acid a.k.a. Aspirin is a prodrug of salicylic acid, which is the active pain reliever. Coined in 1968 from Latin pro- in the sense of having priority in time (as in prologue) + drug. Why not predrug, I haven't a clue.
---L.
Essentially, a precursor chemical. For example, acetylsalicylic acid a.k.a. Aspirin is a prodrug of salicylic acid, which is the active pain reliever. Coined in 1968 from Latin pro- in the sense of having priority in time (as in prologue) + drug. Why not predrug, I haven't a clue.
---L.
