Definition

A term used to describe substances that prevent or reduce the effects of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the body, often used in medications.

Example

The doctor prescribed an anticholinergic medication to help with the patient's symptoms.

Conversation

Have you heard about those new medications that are anticholinergic?

Yeah, I read that they can help with certain conditions.

It's interesting how they work by blocking acetylcholine, right?

Exactly! But I wonder about the side effects of using anticholinergic drugs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anticholinergic is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "cholinergic" (from "choline" which is derived from Greek "chole" meaning bile, and "ergon" meaning work or action). The term describes substances that work against the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in many functions including muscle movement and memory.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against, and 'cholinergic' relating to the action of a neurotransmitter. This helps you remember that anticholinergic refers to something that works against the action of acetylcholine.

Visually Confused Words