title: Physostigmine--its use and abuse.
abstract: Physostigmine salicylate, a cholinesterase inhibitor, has been shown to reverse the effects of certain drugs with anticholinergic properties. The paper provides a brief historical account of physostigmine, reviews the cholinergic drugs and their effects and suggests a management protocol based on physiologic criteria. Twenty-six overdose cases, recently treated with physostigmine, are summarized. The controversy regarding the etiology of seizures following physostigmine administration is discussed.
mesh_terms: D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006801:Humans; D010830:Physostigmine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000506:poisoning*; D011041:Poisoning / Q000188:drug therapy; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders
chemical_list: D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors; D010830:Physostigmine