💀anatomy and physiology i review

Parasympathomimetic drugs

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Parasympathomimetic drugs are a class of medications that mimic the effects of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. These drugs promote rest-and-digest activities by decreasing heart rate, increasing glandular secretions, and relaxing muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.