GANGLION BLOCKING AGENT

any drug that blocks the conduction of an impulse from one nerve cell to another through a ganglion (e.g., group of nerve cell bodies) of the autonomic nervous system. This blockage causes vascular walls to dilate, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure. Ganglionic blocking agents also decrease blood flow through the kidneys and the volume of gastric and salivary secretions. Partial to total impairment of the voiding contractions of the urinary bladder is one undesirable effect. These drugs were formerly used in routine treatment of hypertension but have been replaced by more specific agents; they are still used in the emergency treatment of acute hypertensive cardiovascular disease. A secondary use is to reduce hemorrhage during surgery. See also neuromuscular blocking agent.