chymopapain

[ kahy-moh-puh-pey-in, -pahy-in ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. an enzyme derived from the tropical papaya fruit that is used in some circumstances to treat herniated disks.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chymopapain¹

First recorded in 1970–75; chyme + -o- + papain

Example Sentences

The dispute may some day be settled when a study pitting chymopapain against two placebos is completed at a number of U.S. medical centers.

From Time Magazine Archive

Chymopapain, however, is still available in Canada, and many Americans go there for treatment, sometimes with their doctors' blessings.

From Time Magazine Archive

In the past ten years, chymopapain has been used on 2,000 back patients in the Toronto area.

From Time Magazine Archive

Even more controversial than surgery is the injection of an enzyme called chymopapain into a ruptured disc.

From Time Magazine Archive

But in many cases, chymopapain may now provide an alternative to surgery.

From Time Magazine Archive