Cholinergic Agonist Drugs - General

Question 1

Effects of the PNS

Answer 1

(Rest and Digest)

• Pupil constriction (miosis)
• Salivation
• Vasodilation
• Decreased HR
• Decreased BP
• Bronchoconstriction
• Increased respiratory secretions
• Increased peristalsis
• Urination

Question 2

Effects of the SNS

Answer 2

(Fight or flight)

• Pupil dilation (mydriasis)
• Dry mouth
• Vasoconstriction
• Increased HR
• Increased BP
• Bronchodilation
• Decreased respiratory secretions
• Decreased peristalsis
• Urination blocked

Question 3

Cholinergic Drugs- Definition

Answer 3

Chemicals that act at the same site as the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh)

Question 4

Cholinergic Drugs- MOA

Answer 4

-Often called parasympathomimetic drugs because they actions MIMICS the action of the PNS (rest and digest)

Question 5

Considerations for Children

Answer 5

• Increased risk of adverse effects

- Dosages should be based on weight

Question 6

Considerations for Adults

Answer 6

• Caution against driving while on medication
• Use alternative to breastfeeding
• Harm to fetus is unknown

Question 7

Considerations for Older Adults

Answer 7

• More likely to have adverse effects
• More likely to have toxic levels
• Start on lower dose and monitor
• Institute safety precautions

Question 8

Types of Cholinergic Agonists

Answer 8

• Direct-Acting

- Indirect-Acting

Question 9

Myasthenia Gravis

Answer 9

• Chronic muscular disease caused by defect in neuromuscular transmission
• Autoimmune: body makes antibodies to ACh receptors, causing gradual destruction of them
• S/S: Progressive weakness and lack of muscle control

Question 10

Alzheimer’s Disease

Answer 10

• Progressive disorder involving neural degeneration in the cortex
• Leads to marked loss of memory and the ability to carry on with ADLs
• There is progressive loss of ACh-producing neurons