Question

Compare and contrast characteristics of the four categories of autonomic nervous system drugs. This response should be at least 250 words in length.

Answer 1

Autonomic nervous system is a part of the central nervous system which is needed to control the involuntary actions for the functioning of the human body.

The four major categories of autonomic nervous system drugs are

• Cholenergic /Cholinesterase antagonist
  • These are also called as cholinomimetics.It mainly acts similar to the action of the acetylcholine. The parasympathetic nervous system is often stimulated by these groups of drugs .Thie drug can act in two ways direct and indirect method and improve the functions
• Anticholinergic
  • This group of drug blocks the acetylcholine release and prevent symptoms. This controls the overactive functions and normalises it.
• Sympathomimetics
  • The action of the sympathetic nervous system is often done by these drugs.They act on the neurotransmitter catecholamines namely dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine and control the abnormal central nervous system function.
• Adrenoreceptor antagonist
  • Here the catecholamines like adrenaline and noradrenaline are inhibited or controlled from doing its action and managing symptoms. In simple it stops the action of alpha 1, alpha 2,beta 1, beta 2 and beta 3 receptor action and controlling symptoms .