L16 Cholinergic Agonists and Antagonists Flashcards
What is the endogenous agonist of cholinergic receptors?
Acetylcholine
What are the two classes of cholinergic receptors?
- Muscarinic receptors (G-protein linked)
2. Nicotinic (ligand-gated ion channels)
Where are muscarinic receptors located?
- Nerves
- Heart and smooth muscle
- Glands and endothelium
Where are nicotinic receptors located?
- Neuromuscular end plate, skeletal muscle
2. Autonomic ganglion cells
What does M1 do?
Activates the myenteric plexus
What does M2 do?
Decreases HR and contraction
Where on the heart are M2 receptors located?
SA node
What does M3 do?
Contracts ciliary muscle, bronchiolar muscle, GI smooth muscle, and bladder detrusor muscle
Stimulates secretions of the GI tract and glands
What are the two types of nicotinic receptors?
Nm (skeletal muscle membranes)
Nn (plasma membranes of parasympathetic and sympathetic post-ganglionic cells in the autonomic ganglion)
Describe the structure of nicotinic receptors.
Pentameric transmembrane polypeptides that forma cation-selective channel permeable to K+ and Na+
Nicotinic agonists can activate both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems simultaneously - why?
Because nicotinic receptors are present on post-ganglionic cells of both systems
What are the two major nicotinic receptor agonists?
- Nicotine
2. Succinylcholine
Where does nicotine act?
Nn receptors in autonomic ganglia and CNS
What is nicotine used for clinically?
Smoking cessation
Where does succinylcholine act?
Blocks nicotinic receptors at the NMJ
What are the two broad categories of muscarinic agonists?
- Quaternary nitrogen analogs
2. Naturally occurring tertiary amine alkaloids and synthetic analogs
What are the 4 quaternary nitrogen analogs?
- Acetylcholine
- Methacholine
- Carbachol
- Bethanechol
What does acetylcholine bind to?
Nicotinic and muscarinic receptors
Why does acetylcholine have no therapeutic use?
It is rapidly hydrolyzed by acetyl- and plasma cholinesterases.
Why is methacholine clinically useful?
Though it is hydrolyzed by acetylcholinesterase, hydrolysis is slower, so it has a longer duration of action.
What is the mechanism of action of methacholine?
Primarily muscarinic effects on smooth muscle, glands, and the heart; limited nicotinic effects
What are the indications of methacholine?
- Diagnosis of asthma*
What are the toxicities of methacholine?
- Bronchiolar constriction*
What are the contraindications of methacholine?
- Patients taking beta-blockers*
What is the mechanism of action of carbachol?
Muscarinic and nicotinic activity
Describe the effect of acetylcholinesterase on carbachol.
Less effective, as carbachol is more resistant to hydrolysis by acetylcholinesterase
What are the indications of carbachol?
- Miotic agent (ocular surgery and glaucoma)*
What are the toxicities of carbachol?
- Excessive muscarinic activation (bronchoconstriction, reduced cardiac conduction)*