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Anticholinergics inhibit the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that regulates involuntary smooth muscle contractions. They are used to treat various conditions, including gastrointestinal and urinary problems, and can cause mild side effects such as dry mouth and constipation. Doctors carefully prescribe and monitor dosage to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
Anticholinergics are drugs that are given to reduce the stimulation of smooth muscle tissue by the nervous system. An anticholinergic works by inhibiting the action of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for signaling nerve activity. Forms of the drug have proven effective in treating a wide variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal problems to asthma. Doctors are careful when prescribing these medications to minimize the risk of adverse drug reactions and negative side effects, such as dry mouth, headache, or nausea, or more severely, breathing problems or mental confusion.
Involuntary smooth muscle contractions in the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and other parts of the body are controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS). The acetylcholine produced by the brain normally regulates PSNS activity, but overstimulation can occur if there is too much neurotransmitter or if it is not absorbed properly. When an anticholinergic is given, it travels to the nerves in the PSNS and blocks the receptor sites for acetylcholine, thereby blunting the twitch response.
A patient may be prescribed this drug for a variety of reasons, but the drug is most commonly given to relieve gastrointestinal and urinary problems. People who suffer from frequent stomach cramps, peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, and ulcerative colitis can usually find symptom relief by taking anticholinergics. The drug may also help relieve lung disorders by relaxing muscle tissue and preventing the airways from narrowing. Additionally, an anticholinergic may be given before or during a surgical procedure to desensitize the PSNS.
Some side effects are common with anticholinergic use, although they are usually mild and temporary. Since smooth muscle is involved in the production of mucus and fluids, a patient taking this drug may experience dry mouth, constipation, and difficulty swallowing. Some people have headaches, nausea, joint pain, and chest tightness. Less commonly, the drug can cause mental confusion and severe breathing problems. Allergic reactions are rare and usually cause airway constriction, hives, and a rapid heart rate.
A doctor can limit the possibility of experiencing side effects by thoroughly examining a patient’s medical history and current medication use. Dosage amounts depend on many factors, including a person’s age and specific medical conditions. Most are taken in oral doses once or twice daily, although dissolving powders, suppositories, and intravenous solutions are also available.
It is very important that you follow a doctor’s directions exactly when taking an anticholinergic or any other type of prescription drug. An overdose could cause serious health complications, including cardiac arrest, lung failure, and brain damage. Any unusual minor side effects should be reported to the prescriber, while allergic reactions and breathing difficulties typically require a trip to the emergency room. Most people who are given these drugs experience significant symptom relief without negative consequences.
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