This document discusses drugs that act on the autonomic nervous system. It explains that there are two main types of cholinergic drugs: direct-acting cholinergic agonists that bind directly to cholinergic receptors, and indirect-acting cholinergic agonists that inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine. Examples of each type are provided, including direct agonists like acetylcholine and indirect agonists like physostigmine. The document aims to help students understand neurotransmitter release and the differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

1. Drugs acting
on
the Autonomic Nervous System
Dr. Manoj R. Kumbhare
SMBT College of Pharmacy,
Nandi Hills, Dhamangaon, Nasik
422403

2. Learning outcomes
• After watching this presentation student able
to explain-
• Neurotransmitter release
• Differentiate sympathetic and parasympathetic
nervous system.
• Describe the cholinergic drug effects on major
body systems.
• Classify cholinergic drugs

3. Neurotransmitter release

4. Neurotransmitter release

5. Parasympathetic and Smpathetic System

7. Classification of Cholinergic Drugs
• Direct-acting cholinergic agonists
– Bind to cholinergic receptors, activating them
a. Acetylcholine and related compounds
e.g. Acetylcholine, Methacholine, Carbamylcholine
b. Cholinomimetic alkaloids
e.g. Pilocarpine, Muscarine
• Indirect-acting cholinergic agonists
– Inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase - preventing, which
breaks down ACh - more ACh is available at the receptors
– Reversible - Bind to cholinesterase for a period of minutes to
hours e.g. Physostigmine, Neostigmine
– Irreversible - Bind to cholinesterase and form a permanent
covalent bond e.g. Parathion, Malathion
• The body must make new cholinesterase to break these bonds