To indicate that a particular treatment, drug, or procedure should not be used because it would be harmful or ineffective.
From 'contra-' (against) + 'indicate' (from Latin 'indicare,' to point out). Medical verb created to describe the action of a factor arguing against a treatment.
When a doctor says 'this medication is contraindicated in pregnancy,' they're using a diplomatic way of saying 'this will hurt or kill your baby—do not use it.'
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