Anticholinergic drug

Anticholinergic drugs are a category of pharmaceutical drugs that block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain. These drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory disease, and certain neurological disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Anticholinergic drugs work by blocking the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, which are found in the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. By inhibiting the action of acetylcholine, these drugs can reduce the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digest functions.

Uses

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

• Gastrointestinal disorders: Anticholinergics can reduce the activity of the digestive system, helping to treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and peptic ulcer disease.
• Respiratory disease: These drugs can help to relax the muscles in the airways, making them useful in the treatment of conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
• Neurological disorders: Anticholinergics can also be used to treat certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease and certain types of epilepsy.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, anticholinergics can have side effects. These can include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and confusion. In some cases, long-term use of these drugs can lead to an increased risk of dementia.

See Also

• Muscarinic antagonist
• Acetylcholine
• Neurotransmitter