Y40-Y59: Drugs, medicaments and biological substances causing adverse effects in therapeutic use

Y51: Drugs primarily affecting the autonomic nervous system

Drugs primarily affecting the autonomic nervous system, classified under ICD-10 grouping Y51, refer to a spectrum of medications specifically designed to influence the functioning of the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. These drugs, therefore, can have a profound impact on these functions. They can either stimulate or inhibit the activity of the autonomic nervous system, causing various side-effects and symptoms. Adverse reactions might include changes in heart rate, blood pressure fluctuations, dry mouth, or stomach upset. Continuous usage or misuse can lead to progressive disorders such as chronic hypertension or irregular heartbeat. Although these drugs are primarily used for managing specific medical conditions, it's important to understand that their impact can be broader, affecting multiple bodily systems due to the wide reach of the autonomic nervous system.