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The hidden power of anticholinergic drugs: How do they change how our bodies function?
With the advancement of medicine, anticholinergic drugs are increasingly used in the treatment of various diseases. These drugs block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and peripheral nervous systems, thereby regulating our physiological functions. So, what are the actual effects and uses of these drugs?
Mechanism of action of anticholinergic drugs
Anticholinergic drugs are a class of drugs that inhibit the binding of acetylcholine (ACh) to its receptors. They work primarily by competitively preventing acetylcholine from binding to its receptors on nerve cells, thereby inhibiting the function of the parasympathetic nervous system. These nerve operations involve multiple systems in the body, including the digestive system, urinary system, respiratory system, etc.
Anticholinergic drugs can generally be divided into two categories: antimuscarinics and antinicotine drugs. The former primarily affects muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, while the latter primarily affects nicotine acetylcholine receptors.
Medical purposes
Anticholinergic drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
- Dizziness and motion sickness related symptoms
- Indigestion and gastrointestinal diseases
- Urology disorders such as cystitis and prostatitis
- Respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Anti-salivation effect during surgery
Physiological effects
The physiological effects of anticholinergic drugs are quite diverse, including but not limited to:
- A state of confusion, often accompanied by hallucinations and delusions
- Pupillary dilation, especially when using eye drops
- Inability to sweat and dry mouth
- Constipation and rapid heartbeat
Clinically, the most noteworthy side effect is confusion, which is more common especially in the elderly.
Side effects and risks
Although anticholinergic drugs are very effective in some cases, long-term use may increase the risk of cognitive and physical decline. Particularly in elderly patients, the risks of use of these drugs need to be carefully considered.
Some studies have shown that the use of anticholinergic drugs may be associated with symptoms such as cognitive decline and dementia, especially in older adults.
Toxicity and acute reactions
Once acute anticholinergic syndrome occurs, it is usually reversible and will gradually resolve after all causative factors are eliminated. In life-threatening situations, reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as fesostatin may be used as antidotes, but these drugs should be used with caution.
Pharmacological classification
Anticholinergic drugs are classified according to the receptors they affect and mainly include two categories:
- Antimuscarinics
- Antinicotine drugs
In clinical practice, antimuscarinic drugs are the most widely used.
Psychoactive uses and plant sources
In some cases, anticholinergic drugs are used recreationally, and these drugs are often used to alter consciousness, although their side effects can be very unpleasant. In nature, there are also many plants containing anticholinergic alkaloids, such as:
- Stubborn night shadow (Atropa belladonna)
- Datura species
- Mandragora officinarum
Conclusion
While being used in medical treatments, the various effects of anticholinergic drugs cannot be ignored, and their hidden power in changing body functions is surprising. As research into this class of drugs continues, we may get a clearer picture of their pros and cons. In the future, whether these drugs can continue to have a place in the medical community may depend on whether we can find safer alternatives and medical methods.
