Cholinergics

Cholinergics are medications that increase the synthesis or slow the breakdown of acetylcholine in the body. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in the transmission of nerve impulses.

Cholinergic drugs are divided into two main groups:

1. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are substances that block the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine. This leads to the accumulation of acetylcholine at synapses and increased cholinergic neurotransmission. Such drugs include neostigmine methyl sulfate, pyridostigmine bromide, galantamine and others.

2. Cholinomimetics are substances that directly stimulate cholinergic receptors, imitating the action of acetylcholine. These include aceclidine, bethanechol and others.

Cholinergic drugs are used to treat myasthenia gravis, intestinal and bladder atony, optic atrophy, and Alzheimer's disease. They can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, increased salivation and sweating, and bradycardia. Therefore, their use requires caution and medical supervision.