Which category includes acetylcholinesterase inhibitors used in myasthenia gravis?

• A. Cholinergic receptor antagonists
• B. NMDA receptor antagonists
• C. AChE inhibitors (MG drugs)
• D. Beta-adrenergic blockers

Answer: (C)

In myasthenia gravis, autoantibodies reduce the number of functional acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, making it harder for every nerve impulse to trigger a muscle contraction. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors help by blocking the breakdown of acetylcholine, increasing its concentration in the synapse. This boost in acetylcholine raises the likelihood that acetylcholine will activate the remaining receptors, improving muscle strength and reducing fatigability. These drugs are specifically used as symptomatic MG therapy; pyridostigmine is a common oral example, with neostigmine used in certain settings. Cholinergic receptor antagonists would worsen MG by blocking receptor activity, NMDA receptor antagonists target CNS pathways, and beta-adrenergic blockers do not affect neuromuscular transmission.