Symptom improvement comes from blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine
Anticholinergicdrugs block the action of a chemical messenger calledacetylcholine.
It plays a key role in involuntary movements needed for muscle and brain function.
It transfers signals betweennervesand certain types of muscles and organs for normal brain and body function.
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Anticholinergic drugs can improve many types of health problems, such asbladderproblems,depression, andParkinson’s disease.
This article includes names of anticholinergic drugs, what they treat, and their side effects.
It also explains how these drugs work and who should not take them.
Grace Cary / Getty Images
Anticholinergic Drug Examples
More than 600 anticholinergic medications have anticholinergic effects.
These substances include over-the-counter (OTC) medications, prescription drugs, and plants.
Some anticholinergic drugs are used for their anticholinergic effect.
Other drugs are primarily used for other mechanisms of action but also have anticholinergic effects.
The following is a representation of some anticholinergic drugs.
Some medications on this list may be marketed under additional brand names.
A healthcare provider or pharmacist can inform you of the use and side effects.
Your cholinergic system is a branch of your autonomic nervous system.
The autonomic nervous system includes the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, cholinergic receptors, choline acetyltransferase enzyme, and acetylcholinesterase enzyme.
These molecules regulate your immune response and play a crucial role in maintaining internal equilibrium among your bodily systems.
Acetylcholine acts on many parts of your body simultaneously.
Anticholinergic drugs prevent acetylcholine from binding to muscarinic receptors.
These receptors function in yourperipheralandcentral nervous systemsto handle involuntary muscle movements.
This can be desirable in situations in which these systems produce unwanted effects due to disease.
They can also help manage symptoms related to cognitive function.
Anticholinergic Side Effects
Anticholinergic side effects are wide ranging.
These symptoms can indicate an anticholinergic overdose known as anticholinergic syndrome, toxicity, or poisoning.
There is also a possible link between these drugs with falls, hospitalization, and mortality later in life.
Hundreds of drugs in multiple drug classes have anticholinergic properties.
Older people tend to take more medications for multiple conditions, putting them at risk of excessive anticholinergic effects.
Note that many people with Parkinson’s disease are older adults.
A healthcare provider can determine if the benefits of Parkinson’s medications outweigh the risks.
People With Schizophrenia
Long-term use of anticholinergics is not advised for people with schizophrenia at any age.
A Word From Verywell
Polypharmacy is the simultaneous use of multiple medications for a single patient.
It can lead to an increased risk of side effects and adverse events.
Older adults are particularly at risk for issues stemming from polypharmacy.
Summary
Anticholinergic drugs are among the most commonly used treatments.
They block the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.
This chemical messenger transfers signals between cells that affect certain body functions.
Over 600 compounds can cause this effect.
The added effect can raise their risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
People of all ages can have effects like dry mouth and blurred vision from these drugs.
Your healthcare provider can help you decide whether using these drugs is right for you.
Factors such as your age, chronic conditions, and other drugs can affect your options.
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