Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor

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Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (pronunciation: a-se-til-ko-li-nes-ter-ase in-hib-it-ors) are a class of compounds that inhibit acetylcholinesterase, an important enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the brain and other parts of the body.

Etymology

The term "acetylcholinesterase inhibitor" is derived from the name of the enzyme it inhibits, acetylcholinesterase. The prefix "acetyl-" refers to the acetyl group (CH3CO), "choline" is a quaternary ammonium salt containing the N,N,N-trimethylethanolammonium cation, and "esterase" is a type of enzyme that breaks down esters. The term "inhibitor" refers to the action of these compounds, which is to inhibit or reduce the activity of the enzyme.

Mechanism of action

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors work by blocking the action of acetylcholinesterase, thereby increasing the amount of acetylcholine available in the brain. This can help to improve symptoms in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and myasthenia gravis, where there is a deficiency of acetylcholine.

Types of Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

There are several types of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, including:

Each of these drugs has a slightly different mechanism of action and is used to treat different conditions.

Side effects

Common side effects of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. More serious side effects can include heart problems and seizures.

See also

External links

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