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Parasympathetic Postganglionic Muscarinic — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyPhysiology - NeurophysiologyParasympathetic Postganglionic MuscarinicFRCA Primary

Regarding the parasympathetic nervous system acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter at both preganglionic and postganglionic synapses. The postganglionic receptor subtype is:

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Correct answer: BMuscarinic

Parasympathetic: preganglionic ACh at nicotinic receptors (ganglion) → postganglionic ACh at muscarinic receptors (target organs). Five muscarinic subtypes: M1 (CNS / gastric secretion) / M2 (heart — bradycardia / decreased conduction) / M3 (smooth muscle contraction / glandular secretion) / M4 and M5 (CNS).

Reference: Power Kam 2018 Principles of Physiology for the Anaesthetist