What antiarrhythmic drug is associated with anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth and blurred vision?

Disopyramide is an antiarrhythmic drug that belongs to the class 1A agents, and it is known to exhibit anticholinergic side effects, which include dry mouth and blurred vision. This is primarily due to its ability to block the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors, leading to reduced secretions in salivary glands and effects on the eyes that can result in blurred vision.

Anticholinergic side effects are significant considerations when prescribing disopyramide, especially in older patients or those with pre-existing conditions that may be exacerbated by these effects. This makes it crucial for practitioners to monitor and educate patients about these potential side effects during treatment.

In contrast, the other drugs listed do not generally produce anticholinergic effects. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker primarily affecting cardiac beta adrenergic receptors, while dronedarone and sotalol are antiarrhythmics that do not interfere with cholinergic activity in a way that leads to the aforementioned side effects. Understanding the specific mechanism and side effect profile of disopyramide helps to clarify why it is associated with dry mouth and blurred vision in comparison to the other options.