GANGLIONIC STIMULANTS
Agents that mimic neural transmission by stimulation of the nicotinic receptors on postganglionic autonomic neurons. Drugs that indirectly augment ganglionic transmission by increasing the release or slowing the breakdown of acetylcholine
1. Selective nicotinic agonists:
a. Natural alkaloids:
Nicotine
Lobeline
b. Synthetic drugs:
Dimethylphenyl piperazinium iodide (DMPP)
Tetramethyl ammonium
Varenicline
2. Nonselective/muscarinic agonists:
Acetylcholine
Carbachol
Pilocarpine
Anticholinesterases
GANGLION BLOCKERS
A ganglionic blocker (or ganglioplegic drug) is a type of medication that inhibits transmission between preganglionic and postganglionic neurons in the Autonomic Nervous System, often by acting as a nicotinic receptor antagonist. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are found on skeletal muscle, but also within the route of transmission for the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system.
1. Competitive blockers
a. Quaternary ammonium compounds:
Hexamethonium
Pentolinium
b. Amines (secondary/tertiary)
Mecamylamine
Pempidine
c. Monosulfonium compound:
Trimethaphan camforsulfonate
2. Persistent depolarising blockers:
Nicotine
Anticholinesterases
