Ganglion Blocking Drugs

• Ganglionic blockers act mainly at the primary nicotinic-type cholinergic receptor at sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic ganglia.

  • Agents which are classified as ganglionic blockers are not included among those drugs which block neuromuscular junctions.

• One class of blocker produces a depolarization block: Nicotine could produce this effect.

• The second class of agents include hexamethonium & trimethaphan These agents either competitively block the receptor or block the open channel configuration.

• For essential hypertension, ganglionic blockers have been replaced by better drugs.

  • Ganglionic blockers may be used for initial blood pressure control in patients with dissecting aortic aneurysm because, in addition to reducing blood pressure, blunting of sympathetic responses reduce sheer forces at the tear.

Category: Pharmacology Notes