About suxametho nium chloride
Depolarizing neuromuscular blocker
Used for
- Brief muscle relaxation during surgery or other procedures
- Facilitating tracheal intubation
- Treating severe muscle spasms during electroconvulsive therapy
Usual adult dose
Usually 0.6 mg/kg intravenously for intubation; dose varies by procedure and response.
Usual dose in children
For intubation, usually 1–2 mg/kg intravenously; specialist dosing varies with age and procedure.
Common side effects
- Muscle aches
- Slow or fast heartbeat
- Raised potassium levels
- Prolonged paralysis or breathing weakness
Important warnings
- Can stop breathing; requires airway support and continuous monitoring.
- Avoid with personal or family history of malignant hyperthermia.
- Can cause dangerous potassium increases, especially with burns, nerve injuries, or certain muscle diseases.
- Use caution with heart disease, glaucoma, or reduced plasma cholinesterase activity.
Pregnancy
May be used when needed for anesthesia; it crosses the placenta, so newborn muscle weakness is possible after repeated or large doses.
Breastfeeding
A single dose is unlikely to affect a breastfed infant because the medicine is rapidly broken down and poorly absorbed by mouth.
Interactions
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics and some anesthetics can increase or prolong muscle paralysis.
- Other neuromuscular blockers can intensify or extend its effects.
- Some medicines can raise potassium or increase heart rhythm risks.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.