Which class does Echothiophate belong to?

Echothiophate is classified as an indirect cholinergic agonist, which means it enhances the activity of acetylcholine in the body by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. By inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, echothiophate increases the concentration of acetylcholine, prolonging its action and effect at cholinergic receptors.

This mechanism is particularly useful in the treatment of certain conditions such as glaucoma, where increased levels of acetylcholine can lead to enhanced outflow of aqueous humor and reduced intraocular pressure. The nature of echothiophate’s action distinguishes it significantly from other classes of drugs, such as cholinergic antagonists, which block the action of acetylcholine, and direct cholinergic agonists, which mimic its action by directly stimulating the cholinergic receptors. Beta-adrenergic antagonists, on the other hand, target the adrenergic receptors and are used primarily for cardiovascular conditions, further differentiating them from the pharmacologic effects of echothiophate.