Is Nicotine a Ganglionic Blocker?

Some substances can exhibit both stimulating and blocking effects on autonomic ganglia, depending on dosage and/or duration of action. An example for such a "dual" action is nicotine, which does this via depolarization block (see classification below).

What do ganglionic blockers do?

Ganglionic blockers act by blocking the transmission at the sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia in the autonomic nervous system; they block cholinergic responses mediated by nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAchRs).

When are ganglionic blockers used?

Ganglionic blockers inhibit autonomic activity by interfering with neurotransmission within autonomic ganglia. This reduces sympathetic outflow to the heart thereby decreasing cardiac output by decreasing heart rate and contractility.