What it means
A drug that blocks acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors but does not easily enter the brain. In surgery it is given IV to reduce secretions and, with neostigminenee-oh-STIG-meenA drug that blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, so nerve signals to muscles get stronger.Full entry , to prevent a slow heart rate when muscle relaxants are reversed. It is also used for chronic drooling, for noisy secretions near the end of life, for peptic ulcers, and inhaled for COPD.
For the nurse
Watch for dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, blurred vision and a fast heart rate. Teach the client to avoid overheating, since it reduces sweating.
At a glance
| Drug class | anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Robinul, Cuvposa (oral solution), Glycate |
| Also written | Robinul, Cuvposa |
Related terms
bradycardia
A heart rate slower than normal; in an adult, fewer than 60 beats per minute.
secretion
A substance a gland or cell makes and releases, such as mucus, saliva, sweat or a hormone.
neostigmine
A drug that blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, so nerve signals to muscles get stronger.
death rattle
A noisy, gurgling or rattling sound with breathing in the last hours or days of life.