Propantheline

Propantheline (usually as propantheline bromide) is a type of medical agent called an antimuscarinic. It works by blocking the action of the chemical messenger substance acetylcholine on so-called muscarinic receptors present in various smooth muscular tissues.

Normally, the binding of acetylcholine induces involuntary smooth muscular contractions. By relaxing the gut muscle, propantheline can relieve pain in conditions caused by spasm of the muscle in the gut. Relaxing the smooth muscle in the bladder prevents the involuntary spasms that can allow leakage of urine from the bladder in the condition known as enuresis (involuntary urination in adults). Propantheline can also be used to treat excessive sweating because acetylcholine block also reduces secretions such as sweat and tears.

Side effects include; tachycardia, constipation, hyper-sensitivity to light, a dry mouth, and urinary retention.