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Anticholinergic medicines

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Anticholinergic medicines

Anticholinergic medicines keep nerve impulses from contracting smooth muscle. Smooth muscle is part of the digestive tract, urinary tract, and lungs.

Smooth muscle cannot be controlled consciously (involuntary). But anticholinergics can, for example, relax the airways in the lungs to makes breathing easier.

Anticholinergics are used to treat many health problems, including:

  • Asthma.
  • Cerebral palsy.
  • COPD.
  • Parkinson's disease.
  • Urinary incontinence.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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