Class: Neuromuscular Blocking Agents
VA Class: MS300
CAS Number: 71-27-2
Brands: Anectine, Quelicin
Warning
- Rhabdomyolysis with Hyperkalemia
Risk of acute rhabdomyolysis with hyperkalemia followed by ventricular arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and death in apparently healthy children and adolescents who subsequently were found to have undiagnosed skeletal muscle myopathy (e.g., Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy).
Use in children and adolescents should be reserved for those undergoing emergency intubation, those in whom an airway should be secured immediately (e.g., patients with laryngospasm, difficult airway, or full stomach), or those in whom a suitable vein is not accessible and IM administration is needed. (See Pediatric Use under Cautions.)
- Experience of Clinician
Should be administered only by individuals experienced in the use of neuromuscular blocking agents.
Introduction
Depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent.
Uses for Succinylcholine
Skeletal Muscle Relaxation
Production of skeletal muscle relaxation during procedures of short duration (e.g., endotracheal intubation) after general anesthesia has been induced; neuromuscular blocking agent of choice for procedures lasting <3 minutes.
Facilitation of endotracheal intubation; because of its rapid onset and short duration of action, generally considered neuromuscular blocking agent of choice in emergency situations when rapid intubation (e.g., rapid sequence intubation) is required.
Also used to facilitate mechanical ventilation; however, not used for prolonged neuromuscular blockade in the ICU.
Because of serious adverse effects, restrict use in pediatric population. (See Boxed Warning.)
Succinylcholine Dosage and Administration
General
Dispensing and Administration Precautions
Facilities and personnel necessary for intubation,.
