Mecamylamine hydrochloride

Mecamylamine Hydrochloride is a nonselective, noncompetitive antagonist of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors that was introduced in the 1950s as an antihypertensive agent. It is also used in scientific research because of its nicotinic antagonist properties.

Pharmacology

Mecamylamine hydrochloride works by blocking nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain and in the peripheral nervous system. This blockage inhibits the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in the transmission of signals in the nervous system. Mecamylamine hydrochloride is a noncompetitive antagonist, which means it does not compete with acetylcholine for the same binding site on the receptor. Instead, it binds to a different site on the receptor, changing the receptor's shape and preventing acetylcholine from binding.

Medical Uses

Mecamylamine hydrochloride was originally used as an antihypertensive agent to treat high blood pressure. However, its use for this purpose has declined due to the development of more effective and less toxic antihypertensive drugs. Today, it is primarily used in scientific research. It has also been investigated for use in treating psychiatric disorders, such as Tourette's syndrome, schizophrenia, and depression, due to its effects on the cholinergic system.

Side Effects

The side effects of mecamylamine hydrochloride are related to its anticholinergic activity. These can include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation, and confusion. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as hallucinations, severe allergic reactions, and heart problems.

See Also

• Nicotinic antagonist
• Antihypertensive drugs
• Cholinergic system