Module 7 Map Overview Chap 13 Autonomic Nervous System Drugs
Objectives:
Chapter 13
- Compare and contrast characteristics of the four categories of autonomic nervous system drugs
- List the most frequently used (key) drugs in each of the four categories and the purpose of their administration
- Describe the possible side effects of the of the key drugs
Chemical substances called neurotransmitters are what make the autonomic nervous system function. These chemicals constantly feed information into the system and result in real time bodily reactions, such as fight or flight, as well as rest and digest. Disturbances in the autonomic nervous system or imbalances in the chemical neurotransmitters can result in miscommunications within the system. This can result in improper bodily reactions to stimulus or can exacerbate other preexisting conditions. The role of adrenergic and cholinergic medications is to stabilize and rebalance the neurotransmitters so that the autonomic nervous system receives accurate information and can function properly.
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