Which drug is indicated to cause dry mouth, mydriasis, and increased intraocular pressure?

Which drug is indicated to cause dry mouth, mydriasis, and increased intraocular pressure?

• A. Amitriptyline
• B. Phenelzine
• C. Promethazine
• D. Chlorpheniramine

Answer: (A)

Amitriptyline is known to cause dry mouth, mydriasis (dilated pupils), and increased intraocular pressure due to its anticholinergic properties. This tricyclic antidepressant inhibits the reuptake of neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine, which can lead to several side effects associated with anticholinergic activity. The dry mouth occurs because anticholinergic agents reduce saliva production. Mydriasis results from the blockade of the muscarinic receptors that normally constrict the pupil; when these receptors are inhibited, it leads to dilation. Additionally, the increase in intraocular pressure can happen because the drug may affect the trabecular meshwork and aqueous humor dynamics, making it less effective in draining fluid from the eye. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for recognizing the side effects associated with Amitriptyline, especially in patient populations that may be sensitive to increased intraocular pressure, such as individuals with glaucoma.

Amitriptyline is known to cause dry mouth, mydriasis (dilated pupils), and increased intraocular pressure due to its anticholinergic properties. This tricyclic antidepressant inhibits the reuptake of neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine, which can lead to several side effects associated with anticholinergic activity.

The dry mouth occurs because anticholinergic agents reduce saliva production. Mydriasis results from the blockade of the muscarinic receptors that normally constrict the pupil; when these receptors are inhibited, it leads to dilation. Additionally, the increase in intraocular pressure can happen because the drug may affect the trabecular meshwork and aqueous humor dynamics, making it less effective in draining fluid from the eye.

Understanding these mechanisms is essential for recognizing the side effects associated with Amitriptyline, especially in patient populations that may be sensitive to increased intraocular pressure, such as individuals with glaucoma.