Drugs That Affect Autonomic Functions or the Extrapyramidal System

The document from 2009 provides a comprehensive overview of the adverse effects associated with drugs that affect autonomic functions or the extrapyramidal system. It reports cases where adrenaline caused myocardial infarction and vasospasm, with a 3.6% incidence of major adverse events in adults under 55 with asthma. Ephedrine and Ephedra alkaloids, despite a temporary FDA ban, have been linked to cardiovascular and nervous system adverse effects. The document also discusses the effects of drugs on Parkinson's disease, noting that levodopa does not adversely affect cognitive function or increase the risk of malignant melanoma. Studies involving 60 to 687 patients showed rasagiline's effectiveness in reducing "off" time in Parkinson's disease. Anticholinergic drugs for overactive bladder, like darifenacin, solifenacin, and tolterodine, were found to have fewer adverse effects than traditional drugs, although effects like dry mouth and constipation are still common. The document also highlights the occurrence of hair loss as a side effect of dopamine agonists, with cases of telogen effluvium and alopecia induced by these medications. Overall, the document emphasizes the need for careful monitoring of these drugs due to their potential complications and side effects.