Anticholinergic

Before the discovery of L-dopa in the 1960s, the anticholinergics were generally used to treat Parkinson's disease. This class of medicines has been used far less frequently since then.

How do the anticholinergics work?

The anticholinergics reduce the action of a neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. This effect corrects the imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine in the brain caused by the disease.

Do they have any contraindications or precautions?

In some patients - particularly the most elderly - anticholinergics can cause memory problems and confusion.

Sources :

• Merck Manual 4^th edition
• Interview with Jean-Philippe Brandel, neurologist at the Léopold Bellan Hospital, Paris www.infopatients-lundbeck.fr, 7 July 2011
• MyPDinfo.com, 7 July 2011