What physiological effect can be expected from high dose anticholinergic drug administration?

High doses of anticholinergic drugs typically lead to decreased secretions throughout the body. Anticholinergics work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in various bodily functions, including the stimulation of secretions from glands such as salivary, bronchial, and gastric glands.

When this action is inhibited, it results in a drying effect, which is why patients on anticholinergic medications often experience reduced saliva production and decreased mucus secretions in the respiratory tract. This can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia) or reduced respiratory secretions, which is significant in many therapeutic contexts, particularly during surgery or in conditions like asthma where mucous management is critical.

The other options reflect effects that would not typically be associated with high doses of anticholinergics. Increased gastric motility would contrast with the intended slowing effect of these drugs. Miosis, or constricted pupils, is associated with cholinergic activity, meaning that anticholinergics, which cause dilation (mydriasis), would do the opposite. AV conduction delay, while it can occur under certain circumstances with other drugs, is not a primary or expected outcome of anticholinergic administration at high doses.