Cholinergic Agonists · Pharmacology

In the cardiovascular system, low-dose muscarinic agonists typically cause which of the following?

  1. Vasoconstriction and a rise in systemic blood pressure
  2. Vasodilation via the release of nitric oxide
  3. Positive inotropic and chronotropic effects
  4. Increased conduction velocity through the AV node
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Correct answer: Vasodilation via the release of nitric oxide

Although blood vessels lack direct parasympathetic innervation, they possess M3 receptors on the endothelial cells. Stimulation of these receptors triggers the release of nitric oxide, which diffuses to smooth muscle and causes vasodilation.

Difficulty: Medium Question 15 of 20

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