What effect does cholinergic stimulation have on the body?

Cholinergic stimulation primarily involves the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which utilizes acetylcholine as its neurotransmitter. When cholinergic receptors are stimulated, various physiological responses occur.

Increased urination is a result of enhanced activity in the bladder due to increased contraction of the detrusor muscle and relaxation of the sphincters, facilitating urine expulsion. This is a typical effect associated with parasympathetic activation, as it promotes processes that manage bodily functions when at rest and is characteristic of "rest and digest" responses.

In contrast, options suggesting increased heart rate, decreased salivation, and increased bronchodilation typically align more closely with sympathetic nervous system activity. The sympathetic system tends to accelerate heart rate and reduce salivary secretion while promoting bronchodilation for improved air intake during stress or physical activity. Therefore, understanding the fundamental roles of the autonomic nervous systems clarifies why increased urination stands out as the most accurate representation of cholinergic stimulation effects.