Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

short-acting

Adjective
/ˈʃɔːrt ˈæktɪŋ/
Definition
Referring to a medication or substance that takes effect quickly but does not last long in the body.
Examples
  • Insulin is a short-acting hormone used to manage blood sugar levels after meals.
  • Short-acting bronchodilators provide quick relief for asthma symptoms.
  • Many pain medications are classified as short-acting and provide relief for only a few hours.
Meaning
Short-acting describes something, particularly drugs, that has a rapid onset of effects but a brief duration of action.
Synonyms
  • fast-acting
  • rapid-acting
  • immediate effect