Mecamylamine
Mecamylamine is a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist that acts as a non-depolarizing ganglionic blocker to reduce blood pressure. It was one of the first oral antihypertensive agents developed and works by blocking nerve impulses at autonomic ganglia, decreasing sympathetic tone.
Mecamylamine is an older antihypertensive agent that works by blocking nicotinic receptors at autonomic nerve ganglia to lower blood pressure.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C02BB01
- RxNorm
- 6673
- Generic
- Mecamylamine
- Class
- atc-c02
- Brands
- Vecamyl
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used historically for the treatment of moderate to severe hypertension, particularly when other medications were ineffective or not tolerated. It has largely been replaced by newer antihypertensive agents with more favorable side effect profiles.
Acts as a competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in both sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic ganglia, blocking the transmission of nerve impulses. This reduces sympathetic outflow, leading to decreased vascular resistance and lowered blood pressure.
Significant side effects include constipation, urinary retention, orthostatic hypotension, and dry mouth due to its broad autonomic effects. As a tertiary amine, it crosses the blood-brain barrier and may cause central nervous system effects. Requires careful dose titration and monitoring. Use has declined substantially in favor of modern antihypertensive therapies.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy