Edrophonium chloride

Edrophonium chloride is a chemical compound used in medicine as a diagnostic tool. It is a cholinergic drug that acts as a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor.

Chemical Structure

Edrophonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound. Its chemical formula is C10H16ClNO2. It is a white, crystalline substance that is highly soluble in water.

Medical Uses

Edrophonium chloride is primarily used in the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disease. It is also used in the differential diagnosis of other neuromuscular disorders, and in the reversal of neuromuscular blockade induced by non-depolarizing muscle relaxants.

Mechanism of Action

Edrophonium chloride works by inhibiting the action of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the synapse. By inhibiting this enzyme, edrophonium chloride increases the concentration of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, enhancing neuromuscular transmission.

Side Effects

Common side effects of edrophonium chloride include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sweating. More serious side effects can include bradycardia, hypotension, and bronchospasm.

History

Edrophonium chloride was first synthesized in the 1950s. It was initially used as a treatment for myasthenia gravis, but its use has since expanded to include other neuromuscular disorders.

See Also

• Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
• Myasthenia gravis
• Neuromuscular disease