NCIt definition : The chloride salt form of edrophonium, a short and rapid-acting cholinesterase inhibitor
with parasympathomimetic activity. Echothiophate chloride potentiates the action of
endogenous acetylcholine by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase that hydrolyzes acetylcholine.
When applied topically to the eye, this agent prolongs stimulation of the parasympathetic
receptors at the neuromuscular junctions of the longitudinal muscle of the ciliary
body. Contraction of longitudinal muscle pulls on the scleral spur, and opens the
trabecular meshwork, thereby increases aqueous humor outflow from the eye and reduces
intraocular pressure.;