What is "pentolinium"

n. A ganglionic blocking agent that acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist and is used as a antihypertensive drug.

Pentolinium is a ganglionic blocking agent which acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. It can be used as an antihypertensive drug during surgery or to control hypertensive crises. It works by binding to the acetylcholine receptor of adrenergic nerves and thereby inhibiting the release of noradrenaline and adrenaline. Blocking this receptor leads to smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilatation. Pentolinium can be given orally, injected intramuscularly or administered intravenously.