Acetylcholine receptor antagonist

An acetylcholine receptor antagonist is a substance that blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits signals between nerve cells and muscles. By binding to acetylcholine receptors, these antagonists prevent acetylcholine from attaching and activating these receptors. This interruption can lead to reduced muscle contraction, impacting various bodily functions. Such antagonists are used in medicine to treat conditions like muscle spasms or to induce paralysis during surgery. They can also be found in some toxins and may affect the nervous system.