Name the category.
Antimyasthenic Agents
Name the main drug.
Pyridostigmine
What kind of drug is it?
Indirect parasympathomimetic
Describe the mechanism of action.
Inhibit AchE → ↓ breakdown of ACh → ↑ ACh levels
Name the pharmacological characteristic of pyridostigmine.
Can not cross the blood-brain barrier (quaternary amine)
Typically used with glycopyrrolate, hyoscyamine, or propantheline to control side effects
Name the indication.
Myasthenia gravis (longer action compared to neostigmine): improves muscle strength
List contraindications.
Known hypersensitivity to anticholinesterase agents.
Mechanical obstruction of the intestinal or urinary tract.
List common adverse effects.
Diarrhea, abdominal pain or cramps, dysmenorrhea, increased flatus, nausea, urinary urgency and frequency.
Last changed2 years ago