Final: Neuromuscular Agents

Question 1

Succinylcholine - Depolarizing neuromuscular agent

Answer 1

Causes stimulation and contraction then flaccid paralysis

Onset: 1 min; Duration 10-12 min

Contraindications: Boxed warning for pediatric patients, malignant hyperthermia

Cautions: Fractures, narrow-angle glaucoma or penetrating eye injuries, paraplegia, SCI, low plasma cholinesterase levels

Adverse effects: Muscle pain, malignant hyperthermia

Question 2

Baclofen - Central Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant

Answer 2

Central Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant

Contraindication: Spasms resulting from rheumatic disorders

Cautions: Epilepsy, cardiac dysfunction, hepatic or renal dysfunction, conditions with muscle weakness

Adverse effects: CNS depression, GI upset, hypotension, arrhythmias, urinary frequency, enuresis, urinary urgency

Drug-drug: CNS depressants, alcohol

Question 3

Dantrolene - Direct Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant

Answer 3

Interferes with release of calcium from muscle tubules

Contraindications: Spasticity that contributes to locomotion, upright position, increased function; active hepatic desase

Caution: Females, >35 years, liver disease, respiratory depression, cardiac disease

Adverse effects: CNS despression, GI upset, hepatocellular damage, hepatitis

Drug-drug: Estrogen