Paper I
2015 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme) · 40 marks · 120 min

Question

Rationale for use of physostigmine in atropine poisoning

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Answer

Physostigmine is a lipid-soluble, tertiary amine anticholinesterase that crosses the blood-brain barrier, unlike neostigmine. It reversibly inhibits acetylcholinesterase, increasing acetylcholine levels both peripherally and centrally, thereby reversing both the peripheral anticholinergic effects (tachycardia, dry mouth, urinary retention) and the central effects (delirium, hallucinations, agitation) of atropine overdose — making it the preferred antidote over quaternary anticholinesterases, which act peripherally only.

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