Word parts
What it means
Drugs that block the action of acetylcholineuh-see-tul-KOH-leenA chemical messenger that nerves release to signal muscles, glands and other nerves.Full entry at muscarinic receptors, which slows many "rest and digest" functions. Examples are atropine, scopolamine, oxybutynin, ipratropium and glycopyrrolate. Many other drugs, such as first-generation antihistamines and tricyclic antidepressants, also have anticholinergic effects. Effects include dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision, a fast heart rate and confusion.
For the nurse
Watch older adults for confusion, falls, constipation and retention; strongly anticholinergic drugs are on the Beers list. They can worsen narrow-angle glaucoma and an enlarged prostate. Offer sugar-free gum or sips for dry mouth and encourage fiber and fluids.
Remember it
Anticholinergic effects dry things up and slow things down: dry mouth, blurry vision, no urine, no stool.
At a glance
| Drug class | anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | anticolinérgico |
| Also written | anticholinergics, antimuscarinic, antimuscarinics, cholinergic blocker, parasympatholytic, parasympatholytics |
Related terms
constipation
Bowel movements that happen less often than usual, with hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass.
urinary retention
Being unable to empty the bladder completely, or at all.
glaucoma
An eye disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, usually with raised pressure inside the eye, leading to loss of vision.
antihistamine
A drug that blocks the effects of histamine, used mostly for allergy symptoms.
acetylcholine
A chemical messenger that nerves release to signal muscles, glands and other nerves.