Succinylcholine Drug Card Flashcards

Study Notes

Succinylcholine Overview

Trade name: Anectine
Classification: Neuromuscular blocker, depolarizing agent

Mechanism of Action

Competes with acetylcholine at the motor end plate of muscle cells
Results in muscle paralysis necessary for procedures

Indications

Used to induce neuromuscular blockade for facilitating endotracheal (ET) intubation

Adverse Reactions

Anaphylatoid reactions
Respiratory depression and apnea
Bronchospasm and cardiac arrhythmias
Malignant hyperthermia and hypertension
Hypotension, muscle fasciculation, and post-procedure muscle pain
Hypersalivation and rash

Contraindications

Malignant hyperthermia
Burns and trauma

Cautions

Use with caution in patients with cardiac, hepatic, and renal diseases
Consider in cases of peptic ulcer disease, cholinesterase-inhibitor toxicity, and pseudocholinesterase deficiency
Watch for risks in digitalis toxicity, glaucoma, hyperkalemia, hypothermia, rhabdomyolysis, and myasthenia gravis

Dosage

Adult IV/IO: 0.6 mg/kg (range 0.3-1.1 mg/kg); IM: 3-4 mg/kg (max 150 mg)
Pediatric IV/IO: Adolescents and older children: 1 mg/kg; Small children/infants: 2 mg/kg; IM: 3-4 mg/kg (max 150 mg)

Special Considerations

Pregnancy category: C
IV administration: Neuromuscular blockade occurs within 0.5-1 minute; IM administration: effects in 2-3 minutes
In infants and children, IV use can lead to profound bradycardia or asystole, especially after the second dose
Bradycardia risk can be decreased by pretreatment with atropine
Prolonged effects noted in cases of poisoning with nerve agents and organophosphate pesticides

Description

This quiz provides flashcards focused on the drug succinylcholine, including its trade name, classification, mechanism of action, and indications. Ideal for students and healthcare professionals looking to reinforce their knowledge of this neuromuscular blocker.