A patient who has Parkinson disease is being treated with the anticholinergic medication benztropine (Cogentin). The nurse will tell the patient that this drug will have which effect?

A) Increased intraocular pressure: Sympathomimetic drugs stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and promote "fight or flight" responses, often resulting in vasoconstriction and other effects. Some sympathomimetics, especially those that affect alpha-adrenergic receptors, can lead to increased intraocular pressure, which is a concern in conditions like glaucoma.

B) Decreased blood pressure: Sympathomimetic drugs generally increase blood pressure by stimulating alpha and beta receptors that cause vasoconstriction and increased heart rate. In contrast, drugs that would decrease blood pressure are usually parasympathomimetics or other agents designed to block sympathetic responses.

C) Decreased heart rate: Sympathomimetic drugs typically increase heart rate by stimulating beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart. These drugs are used in situations requiring increased cardiac output or to counteract bradycardia. Decreased heart rate would typically occur with parasympathomimetic drugs or medications that block sympathetic activity (e.g., beta blockers).

D) Increased respiration: Sympathomimetic drugs can increase respiratory rate by promoting bronchodilation through beta-2 adrenergic receptor activation in the lungs. However, "increased respiration" as a general effect is not as specific or consistent as the other cardiovascular and ocular effects of these drugs. The primary and most prominent physiological change would be related to the cardiovascular effects.

A) Stop taking the medication immediately: Abruptly stopping amitriptyline without the guidance of a healthcare provider can cause withdrawal symptoms and other complications. Discontinuing this medication should only be done under medical supervision.

B) Increase fluid intake: Amitriptyline can cause anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth and constipation. Increasing fluid intake helps manage dry mouth by stimulating salivation and helps alleviate constipation by promoting bowel regularity.

C) Request another antidepressant: While amitriptyline can cause side effects like dry mouth and constipation, switching medications should not be the first step. These side effects are often manageable with lifestyle modifications, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, and adjustments to the treatment plan can be considered if the symptoms are severe or persistent.

D) Notify the provider: While it is important for the nurse to document and inform the provider about any significant side effects, this instruction alone does not provide immediate relief to the patient. It is more appropriate to first recommend increasing fluid intake, and then the nurse can discuss with the provider if the symptoms persist or worsen.