Cholinergic Agents

Question 1

How do (DIRECT) cholinergic stimulants work?

Answer 1

Mimic Acetylcholine and bind directly to the cholinergic receptor to activate and create a response at the cellular level

Question 2

How do (indirect) acting cholinergic stimulants work?

Answer 2

increase cholinergic synaptic synapse activity through the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (normally breaks destroys ACTH)

Question 3

What are the indications?

Answer 3

Glaucoma
Dementia due to Alzheimer’s
Myasthenia Gravis
Reversal of Anticholinergic Toxicity
Postoperative decrease in GI motility

Question 4

Side Effects

Answer 4

GI Distress
Impaired Visual Accommodation
Bronchoconstriction
Bradycardia
Flushing

Question 5

Examples of Cholinergic Agents

Answer 5

Patient may experience decrease HR and Dizziness

• Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease or Myasthenia Gravis may be able to participate better in therapeutic activities

Question 6

Examples of Direct Agents

Answer 6

Duvoid (bethanechol)
Pilocar (Pilocarpine)

Question 7

Examples of Indirect Agents

Answer 7

Aricept (Donepezil)
Tensilon (edrophonium)
Prostigmin (neostigmine)
Cognex (tacrine)