Definition
methylxanthine
noun
- Any of a class of alkaloid compounds derived from xanthine and containing a methyl group, including caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, commonly found in plants and used as stimulants or in medicine.
Usage: technical; chemistry/pharmacology
Examples
- Caffeine is the most well-known methylxanthine found in coffee and tea.
- Methylxanthines are used in some asthma medications to help open airways.
- Theobromine, a methylxanthine in chocolate, has mild stimulant effects.
- The pharmacist explained that methylxanthines work by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain.
- Theophylline, another methylxanthine, was historically used to treat respiratory conditions.