Anticholinergic agents

Anticholinergic Agents are a group of drugs that block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain. These agents are used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory diseases, and certain neurological disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Anticholinergic agents work by blocking the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the brain and peripheral tissues. This results in a reduction in the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digest functions.

Uses

Anticholinergic agents are used in the treatment of a variety of conditions. These include:

• Gastrointestinal disorders: These agents can reduce the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, helping to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and peptic ulcer disease.
• Respiratory diseases: Anticholinergic agents can help to relax the muscles in the airways, making them useful in the treatment of conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
• Neurological disorders: Certain anticholinergic agents can be used to treat conditions such as Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, anticholinergic agents can have side effects. These can include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and confusion. In older adults, long-term use of these agents has been associated with an increased risk of dementia.

See Also

• Muscarinic antagonist
• Acetylcholine
• Neurotransmitter

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