Cholinesterase inhibitors

Cholinesterase inhibitors (CHIs) are a class of pharmacological agents that reversibly or irreversibly inactivate the enzyme cholinesterase. Cholinesterase is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in the transmission of nerve impulses in the nervous system.

They are key components in the treatment of various diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, parkinsonism, glaucoma and myasthenia gravis. They have the ability to increase the concentration of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, which leads to improved neurotransmitter transmission and compensation for the lack of acetylcholine associated with these diseases.

One of the most well-known cholinesterase inhibitors is physostigmine. This drug reversibly inactivates cholinesterase and is widely used to treat glaucoma. Its mechanism of action is to increase the concentration of acetylcholine, which helps reduce intraocular pressure.

Prozerin is another example of a Cholinesterase inhibitor that is used in medical practice. It also reversibly inactivates cholinesterase and is used to treat various conditions such as bladder and bowel atony, intestinal paralysis and other organ motility disorders.

It is important to note that they have their own side effects and limitations in use. For example, they can cause myotonia (prolonged muscle contraction), constriction of the pupils, and increased secretion of saliva and sweat. In addition, some chemicals are highly toxic and can be dangerous if used incorrectly.

In conclusion, cholinesterase inhibitors are an important class of drugs used to treat various diseases associated with dysfunction of cholinesterase. Despite their effectiveness, side effects and contraindications must be carefully assessed when prescribing these drugs. Consulting with your doctor is an important step before starting treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors.



Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are substances that can bind to the enzyme cholinesterase and thereby prevent its activity. Cholinesterase is an enzyme that is responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in the transmission of nerve impulses in the body.

ChEIs can be either reversible or irreversible. Reversible inhibitors can bind to cholinesterase only temporarily and can then be removed from the body. Irreversible inhibitors bind to the enzyme permanently and cannot be removed.

Cholinesterase inhibitors are used in medicine to treat various diseases associated with disorders of the nervous system. They are used to treat Alzheimer's disease, parkinsonism, myasthenia gravis, retinal dystrophy and other diseases.

One of the most well-known cholinesterase inhibitors is physostigmine. It is used to treat myasthenia gravis and other neuromuscular diseases. Proserine is also a cholinesterase inhibitor and is used to treat myasthenic syndrome.

However, the use of cholinesterase inhibitors has its limitations. Some of them may cause side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, tachycardia and others. In addition, long-term use of these drugs can lead to the development of resistance to them in the body.

In general, cholinesterase inhibitors are an important tool in the treatment of various diseases of the nervous system. However, their use must be strictly controlled and carried out only under the supervision of a physician.