Pharmacology Basics: Autonomic Nervous System

This lecture covers the effects of norepinephrine and adrenaline on the heart and smooth muscle cells, the classification of cholinergic and adrenergic receptors, and the main sympathomimetics and sympatholytics. It also explains the mechanism of action of cholinesterase inhibitors, desensitization of adrenergic receptors, and the clinical uses of sympathomimetics. Additionally, it discusses the role of amphetamines in activating the sympathetic system, therapeutic uses of muscarinic agonists, and poisoning examples. The lecture delves into the physiological effects of acetylcholine and catecholamines, the pharmacology of the autonomic nervous system, and the action of botulinum toxin.