Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Generic: Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine is an organic chemical that functions in the brain and body of many types of animals (including humans) as a neurotransmitter—a chemical message released by nerve cells to send signals to other cells, such as neurons, muscle cells, and gland cells. Its name is derived from its chemical structure: it is an ester of acetic acid and choline. Parts in the body that use or are affected by acetylcholine are referred to as cholinergic. Substances that interfere with acetylcholine activity are called anticholinergics.
Used as a neurotransmitter in the central and peripheral nervous systems, playing a crucial role in muscle control, memory, and other bodily functions.
Outcome:
Reduced effectiveness of acetylcholine
Mechanism:
Competitive antagonism at muscarinic receptors.
Outcome:
Potential for increased gastrointestinal side effects.
Mechanism:
Additive effects on gastrointestinal motility.
Outcome:
May slightly reduce the effects of acetylcholine.
Mechanism:
Caffeine can be a weak antagonist at adenosine receptors, which can indirectly affect cholinergic pathways.
Most likely new formulation: Targeted delivery systems for specific cholinergic receptors (Year: 2026, 60% confidence)
Based on current usage patterns and clinical trial activity, the likelihood of new acetylcholine-related drug approvals in the next 5 years is moderate (30%).
Neurotransmitter, Cholinergic Agonist
Quaternary Ammonium Salt