Question

The short acting anticholinesterase drug is: 

• A. Physostigmine
• B. Edrophonium
• C. Ecothiophate
• D. Neostigmine

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question asks for the identification of a short-acting anticholinesterase drug among the given options. To solve this, we need to understand what each drug does and determine which one fits the category of short-acting.

Anticholinesterase drugs work by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. By inhibiting this enzyme, these drugs increase the amount of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, enhancing cholinergic transmission.

Let's examine each option provided:

1. Physostigmine: This is an intermediate-acting anticholinesterase agent. It is commonly used to treat glaucoma and certain types of poisoning, but it is not the shortest acting one.
2. Edrophonium: This is a short-acting anticholinesterase drug. It is primarily used in the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (Tensilon test) because of its rapid onset and brief duration of action.
3. Ecothiophate: This is a long-acting anticholinesterase. It is an organophosphate compound used mainly in the treatment of glaucoma. It is not short-acting.
4. Neostigmine: Similar to Physostigmine, Neostigmine is an intermediate-acting agent used in the management of myasthenia gravis and as a reversal agent for neuromuscular blockade after surgery. It is not the shortest acting.

Based on the above analysis, the correct answer is Edrophonium, which is known for its short duration of action.

Conclusion: Edrophonium is the short-acting anticholinesterase drug among the given options.