Antispasmodic drugs belong to a category of medications that alleviate muscle spasms in the smooth (involuntary) muscles lining the walls of the intestine or bladder. These drugs find application in the treatment of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and irritable bladder.
Certain antispasmodic drugs exert their effect through an anticholinergic action, which involves blocking the activity of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating muscle contractions, released from nerve endings. On the other hand, some antispasmodic drugs directly act upon the smooth muscle itself.
Antispasmodic drugs may give rise to potential side effects, including dry mouth, blurred vision, and challenges in urination.