Anticholinergics

Question 1

What are anticholinergics used for?

Answer 1

Inhaled (or potentially IV)- respiratory conditions as adjuncts to steroids and B2 receptor agonists

Question 2

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

Bind to and block ACh receptors (muscle contracation)
Usually as adjuvant to B2 agonists- not v. effective on their own
Reduce mucous secretion

Question 3

Indications of anticholinergics

Answer 3

COPD (tiotropium), acute bronchospasms- virtually never in asthma (Severe exacerbations with insufficient B2 agonist effect)
Adjunct to steroids and b2 receptor agoinsts
Slow onset compared to salbutamol

Question 4

Unwanted effects of anticholinergics

Answer 4

Dry mouth
Nausea
Constipation
Headache
Urinary retention- triotropium, prostatic hyperplasia
Can contribute to angle closure glaucoma- but generally few side effects (LOCALISED ADMIN)