Which of the following is a common side effect of inhaled anticholinergic medications?

Inhaled anticholinergic medications are often used in the management of respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. A common side effect associated with these medications is dry mouth. This occurs because anticholinergic agents work by blocking the action of acetylcholine on the muscarinic receptors in the airway, which leads to reduced secretions in various glands, including salivary glands. As a result, patients may experience a sensation of dryness in the mouth, which can be uncomfortable.

Understanding this side effect is important for patient education and management, as it can affect oral hygiene and overall comfort. Additionally, it can lead to difficulties in swallowing and may necessitate measures to alleviate the discomfort, such as increasing fluid intake or using saliva substitutes.