Drugs affecting the autonomic nervous system( Nicotine and Mecamylamine )
Nicotine
Structure:
A component of cigarette smoke.
Pharmacological action:
Nicotine is part of a group of cholinergic antagonists, meaning that it works by inhibiting receptors in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia.
Uses:
Nicotine is used in a small dose by people who have decided to stop smoking regularly.
Side effect:
Side effects rarely occur from the use of nicotine because it is used in low doses and is mostly used as a topical and not systemic such as topical patches or in the form of gum.
Mecamylamine
Structure:
It is a secondary aliphatic amine.
Pharmacological action:
Mecamylamine dilates blood vessels, thus reducing high blood pressure.
Uses:
Mecamylamine is used in hospital emergencies in case of severe high blood pressure.
Side effect:
1- blurred vision
2- glaucoma
3- dry mouth
4- constipation
5- urinary retention
Nicotine and Mecamylamine are cholinergic antagonists (Ganglionic blockers).