What can an anticholinergic be used to treat?

Antimuscarinic agents, also known as anticholinergics or anticholinergic antimuscarinics, are a class of drugs that block the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic cholinoreceptors.

Examples include:

- Atropine

- Homatropine

- Scopolamine

- Glycopyrrolate

- Ipratropium

Uses of anticholinergics

Gastrointestinal disorders:

Anticholinergics reduce gastrointestinal secretions and motility. They are used to treat:

- Peptic ulcers

- Irritable bowel syndrome

- Motion sickness

- Vomiting

Cardiovascular disorders:

Anticholinergics can be used to treat:

- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)

- Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm)

Respiratory disorders:

Anticholinergics are used to treat:

- Asthma

- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Neurological disorders:

Anticholinergics can be used to treat:

- Parkinson's disease

- Dystonia (a movement disorder)

Ophthalmic disorders:

Anticholinergics are used to dilate the pupils of the eyes for eye examinations. They can also be used to treat:

- Glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)

- Uveitis (inflammation of the eye)

Other uses:

Anticholinergics can also be used to treat:

- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)

- Salivary gland disorders

- Urinary incontinence (inability to control urination)