Anticholinergics are a broad group of medicines that act on the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. They are also called antispasmodics.
By blocking the action of acetylcholine, anticholinergics prevent impulses from the parasympathetic nervous system from reaching smooth muscle and causing contractions, cramps or spasms. Anticholinergics are used in the treatment of some gastrointestinal and bladder conditions. They may also be used in the treatment of some respiratory or movement disorders.