Tag: Cholinergic agonists

For many decades, pilocarpine was a standard treatment for glaucoma, but its use has significantly declined in favor of newer medications. This shift was driven by pilocarpine’s poor patient tolerability, inconvenient dosing schedule, and the emergence of more effective and better-tolerated pharmacological alternatives.

Medications that stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system are known as parasympathomimetics or cholinergic agonists, and they act by mimicking or enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. These drugs are prescribed to treat a variety of conditions by promoting the body's 'rest and digest' functions.

Miotics have been a cornerstone of eye care for over a century, historically serving as a key treatment for lowering intraocular pressure in conditions like glaucoma [1.3.4, 1.7.2]. This article explores the question: how do miotics work to constrict the pupil (a process called miosis)?

In the United States, over 3 million people have glaucoma, a condition often treated with medications that affect pupil size [1.9.5]. Miotics are a class of drugs that cause pupillary constriction, and understanding how do miotics affect the pupil is key to comprehending their therapeutic role.

As a muscarinic cholinergic agonist, pilocarpine primarily stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, yet its cardiovascular effects can be complex and sometimes contradictory. This article investigates how **does pilocarpine affect heart rate** and the underlying pharmacology that can lead to both expected and unexpected cardiac changes.

The vagus nerve constitutes about 75% of the parasympathetic nervous system, playing a key role in the body's 'rest and digest' functions [1.8.4]. Understanding what medication activates the parasympathetic nervous system involves exploring drugs that mimic or enhance the primary neurotransmitter, acetylcholine [1.2.1, 1.4.4].

While newer medications have become the standard for managing glaucoma, miotics still offer a powerful mechanism for lowering intraocular pressure, particularly in specific cases. Understanding **what is the mechanism of action of miotics in glaucoma** is key to appreciating their role in ophthalmology.

Approximately 53% of pilocarpine users report a positive experience, leaving many searching for alternatives due to side effects or lack of efficacy [1.2.1]. If you're asking, 'What can I take instead of pilocarpine?', this article explores your options for managing glaucoma and dry mouth.