Prostaglandin

One of a group of fatty acids that is made naturally in the body and acts in a similar way to hormones. Prostaglandins cause pain and inflammation in damaged tissue, protect the lining of the stomach and duodenum against ulceration, lower blood pressure, and stimulate contractions in labour. (See also prostaglandin drugs.)

 

Online Medical Dictionary: Your essential reference to over 5000 medical terms.