preventive

(noun) remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease. Synonyms: preventative, prophylactic. Example: "The doctor recommended several preventatives."

(noun) any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome. Synonyms: hindrance, hinderance, hitch, preventative, encumbrance, incumbrance, interference.

(noun) an agent or device intended to prevent conception. Synonyms: contraceptive, preventative, contraceptive device, prophylactic device, birth control device.

(adj) preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease. Synonyms: preventative, prophylactic. Examples: "Preventive medicine." "Vaccines are prophylactic." "A prophylactic drug."

(adj) tending to prevent or hinder. Synonyms: preventive (vs. permissive), preventative.