Respiratory Therapy Pharmacology Practice Test

Anticholinergic drugs primarily affect acetylcholine, which is a key neurotransmitter involved in various functions in the body, particularly within the parasympathetic nervous system. These drugs work by blocking the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, which can lead to several physiological effects, including reduced secretions, bronchodilation, and decreased smooth muscle contractions.

In the context of respiratory therapy, anticholinergic medications, such as ipratropium and tiotropium, are commonly used to manage conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by dilating the airways and reducing bronchial secretions. This targeted inhibition of acetylcholine helps to alleviate symptoms and improve respiratory function in patients.

The other neurotransmitters and their associated pathways are influenced by different classes of drugs or are not directly related to the mechanisms of action of anticholinergics.