Edrophonium Chloride: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses, Side Effects

Chemical Structure:

• C10H16ClN2O

Chemical Structure

Mechanism of Action:

• Edrophonium is a short-acting compound that reversibly binds to acetylcholinesterase. It differs from other cholinesterase inhibitors in its rapid onset and short duration of action, making it particularly useful for diagnostic purposes.

Uses:

• It is used primarily for the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis and sometimes to differentiate between myasthenic crisis and cholinergic crisis.

Side Effects:

• Because of its short action, side effects are less common but can include bradycardia, increased salivation, and muscle fasciculations.