Tag: Cholinergics

The parasympathetic nervous system plays a vital role in regulating airway tone, and its key neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, is a potent bronchoconstrictor. This confirms that, yes, cholinergics cause bronchoconstriction by triggering a specific chain of events that leads to the contraction of airway smooth muscle.

The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is responsible for the body's 'rest and digest' functions, and parasympathomimetics are a class of medications that activate this system by mimicking the effects of the primary neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Understanding what are the effects of parasympathomimetics is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients alike, as these drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, from glaucoma to urinary retention.

Pinpoint pupils, medically known as miosis, are a classic sign of an opioid overdose, but this is not the only cause [1.2.8]. Numerous prescription and non-prescription drugs can lead to this condition. So, **what medications cause miosis?**

**Fact:** The iris sphincter muscle contains muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, and stimulating them is the specific mechanism by which **cholinergics constrict pupils**. This action, known as miosis, is a key function of the parasympathetic nervous system.