Rationale for Selective Muscarinic Receptor Agonists as Candidates for the Management of Cognitive and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease

M₁ and M₄ muscarinic receptors are thought to impact psychosis and cognition by modulating the level of neurotransmitters via distinct pathways. Importantly, the location of muscarinic receptors in certain areas of the brain dictates specific neurotransmitter responses in those areas, as opposed to widespread changes throughout. Overall, muscarinic receptor agonists may represent a new therapeutic class for the treatment of cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms of AD.