What adverse effect(s) are associated with anticholinergic drugs? Select all that apply.

A. Urinary retention: Anticholinergic drugs block muscarinic receptors in the bladder, reducing detrusor muscle contraction. This leads to impaired bladder emptying, especially in older adults or clients with prostatic enlargement. Urinary retention is a classic anticholinergic adverse effect. B. Constipation: Inhibition of parasympathetic activity decreases gastrointestinal motility and intestinal secretions. Reduced peristalsis slows stool transit through the colon. This commonly results in constipation with anticholinergic use. C. Increased salivation: Anticholinergic medications suppress salivary gland secretion by blocking muscarinic receptors. This leads to dry mouth (xerostomia) rather than increased saliva production. Salivation is typically reduced, not enhanced. D. Decreased sweating: Sweat glands rely on cholinergic stimulation for normal function. Anticholinergic drugs inhibit this pathway, reducing sweat production. This increases the risk for heat intolerance and hyperthermia. E. Bradycardia: Anticholinergic agents block vagal stimulation of the heart, leading to increased heart rate. Tachycardia is more commonly observed than slowed cardiac conduction. Bradycardia is not a typical adverse effect.