Which adverse effects are commonly expected from cholinergic agents like Physostigmine?

Cholinergic agents, such as Physostigmine, primarily enhance cholinergic neurotransmission by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine. This increased availability of acetylcholine can lead to a range of effects, commonly referred to as cholinergic effects.

These cholinergic effects include increased salivation, lacrimation, urination, defecation, gastrointestinal distress, and muscle spasms. In some instances, stimulation of the central nervous system can also lead to seizures, especially if there is an overactivity of cholinergic signaling. Therefore, it is important to recognize that while cholinergic agents can lead to various physiological changes, they can also provoke excitatory responses that may result in seizures under certain circumstances.

In contrast, the other options present effects that are not typically associated with cholinergic agents. For instance, dry mouth and constipation are more characteristically associated with anticholinergic agents, which block the action of acetylcholine, leading to reduced secretions and diminished gastrointestinal motility. Fluid retention and hypertension are also not standard effects of cholinergic agents; instead, they might be seen in conditions exacerbated by fluid overload or certain cardiovascular medications. Cardiac rhythm disturbances