What is "parasympatholytic"

a. (context medicine English) That blocks the action of the parasympathetic nervous system; anticholinergic n. Any drug having this effect

A parasympatholytic agent is a substance or activity that reduces the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system. (The parasympathetic nervous system is often colloquially described as the "Feed and Breed" or "Rest and Digest" portion of the autonomic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system becomes strongly engaged during or after a meal and during times when the body is at rest.)

The term parasympatholytic typically refers to the effect of a drug, although some poisons act to block the parasympathetic nervous system as well. Most drugs with parasympatholytic properties are anticholinergics.

"Parasympatholytic" and sympathomimetic agents have similar but not identical effects. For example, both cause mydriasis, but parasympatholytics reduce accommodation ( cycloplegia), whereas sympathomimetics do not.