Pilocarpine is a natural alkaloid derived from the leaves of the jaborandi plant. It primarily acts as a muscarinic agonist, stimulating the secretion of saliva and sweat. Clinically, pilocarpine is used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) in conditions like Sjögren's syndrome and as an eye drop to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma. Its ability to enhance exocrine gland activity makes it a valuable therapeutic agent in managing these conditions.

Metacholine, also known as acetyl-beta-methylcholine chloride, is a synthetic cholinergic agent that mimics the action of acetylcholine (ACh) in the body. Chemical Structure: Molecular Formula: C8H18ClNO2 Chemical Name: 2-[(Acetoxy)(methyl)amino]ethyltrimethylammonium chloride…

Bethanechol is a synthetic cholinergic agonist primarily used to treat urinary retention and stimulate bladder contractions. It selectively targets muscarinic receptors, promoting smooth muscle activity in the bladder. Unlike acetylcholine, bethanechol has a longer duration of action due to its resistance to acetylcholinesterase, making it effective for enhancing urination.

Carbachol is a synthetic cholinergic agent that mimics acetylcholine. It is primarily used in ophthalmology to lower intraocular pressure in conditions like glaucoma and to induce miosis during eye surgeries. Carbachol acts on both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors, promoting muscle contraction in the eye and enhancing fluid drainage. Its effects are longer-lasting than those of acetylcholine due to its resistance to degradation by acetylcholinesterase.

Acetylcholine is a key neurotransmitter that regulates muscle contraction, cognitive functions, and autonomic processes. It acts on nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. While not used directly as a drug, its effects are targeted by medications such as cholinergic agonists and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors to treat conditions like Alzheimer's disease and myasthenia gravis.