coun·ter·ir·ri·tant (koun t r-îr  -tnt)n. An agent that induces local inflammation to relieve inflammation in underlying or adjacent tissues. adj. Relating to or producing counterirritation. |
counterirritant,
an agent used to produce an irritation in one part of the body intended to relieve irritation in some other part.
counterirritant,
n an irritant that blocks perception of pain by diverting attention to the sensation that it produces.
counterirritant
1. producing counterirritation.
2. an agent that produces counterirritation. Blistering by application of a paste or liquid containing rubefacient agents such as cantharides or mercuric iodide, and firing, by burning the skin and superficial tissues with a hot iron, were used as counterirritants on the lower limbs of lame horses. Less traumatic measures are more commonly used nowadays.
counterirritant
Any substance applied to the skin–eg, capsaicin-from chili peppers—which, by acting as an irritant on a painful zone, attenuates pain sensation. See Capsaicin.
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