Canadian Medical Guide > Biological Sciences > Physiological Processes > Chronobiology > Periodicity > Circadian Rhythm Terms and Definitions
Circadian Rhythm
Medical Definition: | The regular recurrence, in cycles of about 24 hours, of biological processes or activities, such as sensitivity to drugs and stimuli, hormone secretion, sleeping, feeding, etc. This rhythm seems to be set by a 'biological clock' which seems to be set by recurring daylight and darkness. |
Guide Notes: | drug admin based on circadian rhythm = CHRONOTHERAPY: do not coord with CIRCADIAN RHYTHM or DRUG ADMINISTRATION SCHEDULE; jet lag: index JET LAG SYNDROME |
Activity Cycles - Bouts of physical irritability or movement alternating with periods of quiescence. It includes biochemical activity and hormonal activity which may be cellular. These cycles are shorter than 24 hours and include sleep-wakefulness cycles and the periodic activation of the digestive system. |
Circadian Rhythm Medical Definitions and Terms
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