Carbachol

Products

Carbachol is commercially available as a solution for injection (Miostat). It has been approved in many countries since 1976.

Structure and properties

Carbachol (C6H15ClN2O2, Mr = 182.7 g/mol) is a structural analog of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Instead of the acetyl group, a carbamoyl group is present, resulting in increased chemical stability. As a result, carbachol is less easily cleaved by acetylcholinesterase and thus has a longer half-life. Carbachol is a white, crystalline powder that is very soluble in water.

Effects

Carbachol (ATC S01EB02) has parasympathomimetic and miotic properties. The parasympathomimetic effect comes from the cholinergic response to motor endplates of the sphincter muscle of the iris.

Indications

Miosis during surgical procedures.