Drugs affecting the autonomic nervous system( Succinylcholine)
Structure:
It is a dicholine ester, and it is a quick response in the body, but it is short duration of action.
Pharmacological action:
Succinylcholine binds to nicotinic receptors, which leads to depolarization of the joints ( It causes sodium channels to open, which leads to muscle twitching) meaning that it acts like acetylcholine, but it is not broken down as quickly as acetylcholine.
Uses:
1. Endotracheal intubation
2. During electroconvulsive shock treatment.
Side effect:
1- Apnea: due to paralysis of the diaphragm.
2-Hyperkalemia: it increases potassium release from intracellular stores.
3-Hyperthermia: with muscular rigidity and hyperpyrexia.
Succinylcholine is considered a cholinergic antagonist (neuromuscular blocker).