Cholinesterase Inhibitors Nursing Cheat Sheet – Alzheimer’s Medications & Cholinergic Effects Study Guide (Printable PDF)

Cholinesterase inhibitors block the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, so ACh piles up and cholinergic signaling ramps up. In the brain that’s the goal — sharper memory, less confusion — but acetylcholine isn’t brain-only, so the very same mechanism shows up everywhere else. This one-page visual makes that “same molecule, two addresses” logic click.

What’s inside:

• The mechanism — block cholinesterase → ACh accumulates → cholinergic signaling climbs
• The intended target: memory and cognition (donepezil, rivastigmine)
• Why the body pays the tax: gut cramps, increased secretions, frequent urination, and a vagus nerve that drags heart rate down
• Red flag — sick sinus syndrome and any new dysrhythmia: call the provider, not wait-and-see
• How memantine is different entirely — quieting glutamate instead of boosting ACh
• The watch-phrase: on a cholinesterase inhibitor, watch for “too much cholinergic”

Perfect for: nursing students, new grads, NCLEX prep, med-surg and critical care floors.

Instant PDF & PNG download — print it, slip it in your clinical binder, or save it to your phone.

For educational and study purposes only. Not medical advice or a treatment protocol.