Pharmacology of the Autonomic Nervous System

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Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Function

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Controls involuntary body functions (e.g., heart rate, digestion, respiration)

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Afferent Fibers

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Sensory input in the Autonomic Nervous System.

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Flashcards covering the key concepts of the autonomic nervous system and related drugs.

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35 Terms

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Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Function

Controls involuntary body functions (e.g., heart rate, digestion, respiration)

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Afferent Fibers

Sensory input in the Autonomic Nervous System.

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Central Integration

Processes information in the Autonomic Nervous System.

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Efferent Fibers

Preganglionic and postganglionic motor fibers in the Autonomic Nervous System.

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Parasympathetic Nervous System (PANS)

"Rest and digest," conserves energy, increases digestion.

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Sympathetic Nervous System (SANS)

"Fight or flight," increases heart rate, dilates pupils.

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Effect comparison (PANS vs. SANS)

Opposing effects on the same organs.

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PANS Neurotransmitter

Acetylcholine (ACh) at both ganglion and effector in the Parasympathetic Nervous System

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SANS Neurotransmitters

ACh at ganglion, Norepinephrine (NE) at effector in the Sympathetic Nervous System

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Cholinergic receptors

Nicotinic (at ganglia) and Muscarinic (at effector)

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Adrenergic receptors

Alpha (α) and Beta (β)

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Direct-acting agents (Cholinergic)

Bind directly to receptors (e.g., Pilocarpine).

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Indirect-acting agents (Cholinergic)

Inhibit cholinesterase, increasing ACh (e.g., Neostigmine).

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Pharmacologic effects of Cholinergic Agents

Decrease heart rate, vasodilation, lower blood pressure.

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Pharmacologic effects of Cholinergic Agents

Increase GI motility and secretions.

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Miosis

Pupil constriction

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Cycloplegia

Paralysis of ciliary muscle

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Uses of Cholinergic Agents

Treats Glaucoma, xerostomia, urinary retention (non-obstructive)

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Mechanism of Anticholinergic Agents

Block muscarinic receptors, inhibiting ACh effects in PANS.

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Pharmacologic effects of Anticholinergic Agents

Decrease saliva and bronchial secretions

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Mydriasis

Pupil dilation

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Pharmacologic effects of Anticholinergic Agents

Decrease GI motility and secretions

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Uses of Anticholinergic Agents

Pre-op to reduce secretions, ophthalmic exams (mydriasis + cycloplegia)

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Uses of Anticholinergic Agents

Treats veractive bladder, motion sickness (e.g., scopolamine patch)

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Contraindications of Anticholinergic Agents

Angle-closure glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, GI/GU obstruction

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Adverse effects of Anticholinergic Agents

Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention

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Alpha-blockers (α-blockers)

Block vasoconstriction, lowers BP, may cause reflex tachycardia

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Beta-blockers (β-blockers)

Block β-receptors, lowers heart rate and contractility, can cause bronchoconstriction

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Combined blockers (α/β)

Example: Labetalol - lowers BP without reflex tachycardia

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Non-depolarizing (competitive) Neuromuscular Blocking Drugs

Block ACh causing muscle paralysis

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Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Drugs

Constantly stimulate leading to eventual paralysis

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Uses of Neuromuscular Blocking Drugs

Muscle relaxation during surgery

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Caution: Succinylcholine

Risk of malignant hyperthermia

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Epinephrine reversal

Giving α-blocker before epinephrine can drop BP instead of raising it.

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Pseudoephedrine regulation

Restricted due to its use in methamphetamine production.