What symptom might indicate an overdose of anticholinergic medications?

A symptom such as dry mouth and confusion is indicative of an overdose of anticholinergic medications. Anticholinergic agents work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in the regulation of various bodily functions, including salivation and cognitive processes. When an overdose occurs, this blockade can lead to a significant reduction in saliva production, leading to a dry mouth sensation. Additionally, cognitive impairment or confusion can arise due to the disruption of normal neurotransmitter activity in the brain, as acetylcholine is essential for memory and cognitive function.

Understanding the effects of anticholinergic drugs helps clarify why dry mouth and confusion are key symptoms of overdose. Profuse sweating, excessive saliva production, and rapid heartbeat are often related to opposing physiological responses or effects of other substances, but they do not align with the typical presentation of an anticholinergic overdose.