Diphenoxylate

/ˌdɪfɛˈnɒksɪleɪt/ noun

Definition

A medication that reduces intestinal movement to treat diarrhea, usually combined with atropine and sold under the brand name Lomotil.

Etymology

From 'diphenyl' and 'oxylate' (chemical suffix), reflecting its molecular structure with two phenyl groups. Developed in the 1960s as an antidiarrheal agent.

Kelly Says

Diphenoxylate is why Lomotil is called the 'traveler's secret weapon'—it tells your intestines to basically chill out and stop their emergency evacuation protocol, giving your body time to reabsorb water!

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