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Cholinergic Effects on Acid Base Balance

Most biological systems are dependent on maintaining a balance of acids and bases in the body. Certain medical conditions and drugs, such as the anticholinergic, can cause acid-base imbalances that require medical attention. These imbalances can cause death, but fortunately, physicians can correct the imbalance by administering an acid or base.

  1. Acids and Bases

    • A substance is an acid when it ionizes to form hydrogen atoms when placed in a liquid solution. Acids that ionize almost completely in the solution are strong acids, while acids that ionize partially are weak acids. Acids are proton donors. Bases are substances that ionize to create hydroxide ions in aqueous solutions. They are substances that act as proton receptors. When acids and bases come together, they neutralize each other and create salt. In addition, the H cation and the OH anion merge to form water.

    Anticholinergics

    • When something is anticholinergic, it is antagonistic to cholinergic nerve fibers, which inhibits the transmission of parasympathetic nerve impulses. Cholinergic fibers use acetylcholine as neurotransmitters. This is the only neurotransmitter used to control body movements with skeletal muscles voluntarily. Acetylcholine is the main neurotransmitter used in autonomic ganglia, which is the junction between autonomic nerves. It blocks the neurohormone acetylcholine. Anticholinergic substances prevent different parts of the body from secreting hormones and prevent spasms. Anticholinergic agents can protect against various problems, such as spasms, tremors and heavy sweating. Some anticholinergic drugs cause acid-base imbalance and electrolyte imbalances.

    Anticholinergic Drugs

    • Overdosing on some anticholinergic drugs, such as Akineton, can cause problems with the acid-base balance. Along with a high fever and a loss of fluid volume, those overdosing on anticholinergic drugs can develop a pH that is either below 7.37 or above 7.43. The ideal pH is between 7.37 and 7.43, with the best pH at 7.4.

    Bodily Defenses

    • The kidneys and pulmonary systems are responsible for maintaining pH balance. PH can become imbalanced temporarily, but cells and body fluids have buffers to protect against acids. The respiratory system can also fix imbalances by altering the partial pressure of carbon dioxide. The excretion system can release excess acids and bases.

    Acidosis

    • Excessive acids lead to acidosis and excessive bases lead to alkalosis. Short-term acidosis is harmless, but long-term acidosis can cause headaches, weakness and rapid breathing. Nausea and vomiting are also possible. Death usually occurs when the pH falls below 6.80. Venous administration of an alkaline substance can raise the pH.

    Alkalosis

    • Excessive alkali in bodily fluids causes the body to quickly lose bicarbonates. This leads to convulsions, muscle weakness, cramping, irritability and intestinal obstruction. When the pH rises above 7.80, death can occur. A physician can stop alkalosis by administering a weak acid into the bloodstream.

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