Parasympatholytics

Parasympatholytics are like a little stop sign for a part of our body called the parasympathetic nervous system. We have two nervous systems in our body. One is the sympathetic nervous system, which is like the gas pedal in a car and makes us feel excited, scared, or energetic. The other is the parasympathetic nervous system, which is like the brakes of a car and slows us down, makes us feel relaxed and calm.

Sometimes doctors may give us parasympatholytics to stop the parasympathetic nervous system from working too much. This can be helpful in certain situations like when we have too much saliva in our mouth, when our muscles are too tight or cramping, or to help us pee better. It can also be used to help treat some medical conditions related to our gut, heart, and lungs.

But just like a stop sign, these medicines may also have side effects. They may make our eyes and mouth feel dry, or make it harder for us to go to the bathroom. So it is important to use them only when a doctor prescribes them and to follow their instructions carefully.