Tag: Endothelium

Contrary to a simple classification, the effect of cholinergic drugs on blood vessels is not uniform and can be paradoxical, depending on the state of the vascular endothelium. The intricate interplay between acetylcholine, endothelial health, and different receptor subtypes determines whether cholinergic drugs cause vasoconstriction or vasodilation.

Acetylcholine (ACh), a vital neurotransmitter, exhibits a dual role in the cardiovascular system [1.8.1]. The answer to whether **does acetylcholine cause vasoconstriction or vasodilation** is complex, as it depends on the health of the vascular endothelium and the specific receptors activated [1.4.2, 1.5.1].