Which of the following is an adverse effect of cholinergic agents?

Bradycardia is indeed an adverse effect associated with cholinergic agents. These agents enhance the activity of acetylcholine in the body, which can lead to increased parasympathetic nervous system stimulation. One common response to this enhanced activity is a decrease in heart rate, resulting in bradycardia. This occurs because cholinergic agents, such as atropine or pilocarpine, can stimulate muscarinic receptors in the heart, causing the heart to slow down.

Cholinergic agents may produce other effects as well, but they often relate to their stimulating action on the parasympathetic nervous system, which typically results in responses like increased salivation, lacrimation, urination, defecation, gastrointestinal distress, and bronchoconstriction. These agents are less commonly linked with hypertension or symptoms associated with reduced salivation, such as a dry mouth. Increased appetite is also not a primary adverse effect of cholinergic agents, although stimulation of the digestive system could theoretically enhance appetite indirectly. However, bradycardia is a well-documented and significant concern that healthcare providers monitor when using cholinergic medications.