CHOLINERGIC Ch.12

Cholinergic Drugs

Medications that mimic the action of acetylcholine (ACh) and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system.

Parasympathomimetics

Drugs that mimic the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing rest-and-digest symptoms.

Anticholinergics

Drugs that block the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to inhibition of the parasympathetic nervous system.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter that activates cholinergic receptors in the autonomic and central nervous systems.

Nicotinic Receptors

Cholinergic receptors located at the ganglionic synapse in both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS.

Muscarinic Receptors

Cholinergic receptors located on target tissues affected by postganglionic neurons in the parasympathetic nervous system.

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

Drugs that inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, allowing acetylcholine to persist longer at the synapse.

Atropine

An anticholinergic drug that blocks acetylcholine, increasing heart rate and reducing secretions.

Physostigmine

An acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used to reverse anticholinergic toxicity.

Cholinergic Crisis

A medical emergency occurring due to an overdose of cholinergic agents or organophosphate poisoning, characterized by excessive parasympathetic stimulation.

Myasthenia Gravis

An autoimmune disease characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of skeletal muscles due to impaired communication between nerves and muscles.

Rest-and-Digest Response

Physiological reactions activated by the parasympathetic nervous system that promote recovery and conservation of energy.

Fight-or-Flight Response

Physiological reactions activated by the sympathetic nervous system that prepare the body for stressful situations.

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE)

An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, terminating its action.

Adrenergic Drugs

Medications that mimic the action of norepinephrine or epinephrine, stimulating the sympathetic nervous system.

Cholinergic Effects

Physiological effects associated with stimulation of cholinergic receptors, such as increased salivation, sweating, and digestive tone.

Adrenergic-Blocking Drugs

Medications that inhibit the action of norepinephrine or epinephrine, reducing sympathetic nervous system activity.

Mydriasis

The dilation of pupils, often induced by anticholinergic drugs.

Drug Interactions

The effects that occur when the actions of one drug are altered by the presence of another drug.

Hypotension

Abnormally low blood pressure, which can be a side effect of cholinergic drugs.

Salivation and Sweating

Common side effects of cholinergic stimulation, indicative of increased parasympathetic activity.