NREMT Paramedic Practice

In pharmacology, sympathomimetic drugs would be expected to:

1. Enhance parasympathetic nervous system activity

2. Simulate the "fight or flight" response

3. Decrease blood pressure

4. Promote relaxation of muscles

The correct answer is: Simulate the "fight or flight" response

Sympathomimetic drugs are designed to mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, which is often described as responsible for the "fight or flight" response. When these drugs are administered, they stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and epinephrine (adrenaline) which can lead to effects such as increased heart rate, dilated pupils, enhanced blood flow to muscles, and elevated blood pressure—all classic responses associated with the body preparing to respond to stress or danger. These effects are crucial for situations requiring increased alertness, strength, and energy, typical of a sympathetic response. Understanding how sympathomimetics work is important for those in emergency medical services, as they can be utilized in treating conditions such as bronchospasm, cardiac arrest, and severe hypotension. In contrast to the correct option, enhancing parasympathetic nervous system activity, decreasing blood pressure, and promoting relaxation of muscles are effects associated with the opposite autonomic nervous system branch, the parasympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for "rest and digest" functions, which would not be the desired outcomes associated with sympathomimetic drug use.