Drug reference
neostigmine
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Central Nervous System (Alzheimer's Drugs)
Mechanism of action
Competitive inhibitor of cholinesterase resulting in decreased hydrolysis of acetylcholine by cholinesterase; by reducing the breakdown of acetylcholine, neostigmine increases acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft which competes for the same binding site as nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, and reverses the neuromuscular blockade
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Convulsions
- Syncope
- Allergic: Allergic reactions and anaphylaxis
- Loss of consciousness
- Increased oral, pharyngeal and bronchial secretions, and dyspnea
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is neostigmine?
neostigmine belongs to: Central Nervous System.
How does neostigmine work?
Competitive inhibitor of cholinesterase resulting in decreased hydrolysis of acetylcholine by cholinesterase; by reducing the breakdown of acetylcholine, neostigmine increases acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft which competes for the same binding site as nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, and reverses the neuromuscular blockade
What are the common side effects of neostigmine?
Dizziness, Convulsions, Syncope, Allergic: Allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, Loss of consciousness, Increased oral, pharyngeal and bronchial secretions, and dyspnea
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