prostaglandin (PG) /pros′təglan″din/ [Gk, prostates, standing before; L, glans, acorn] , one of several potent unsaturated fatty acids that act in exceedingly low concentrations on local target organs. Prostaglandins are produced in small amounts and have a large array of significant effects. Those given in tablets or in solutions for oral or IV use effect changes in vasomotor tone, capillary permeability, smooth muscle tone, aggregation of platelets, endocrine and exocrine functions, and the autonomic and central nervous systems. Some of the pharmacological uses of the prostaglandins are termination of pregnancy and treatment of asthma and gastric hyperacidity.
