Hexafluronium

Hexafluronium is a neuromuscular-blocking drug or muscle relaxant in the category of non-depolarizing neuromuscular-blocking drugs, used adjunctively in anesthesia to facilitate endotracheal intubation and to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery or mechanical ventilation.

Pharmacology

Hexafluronium is a long-acting, non-depolarizing skeletal muscle relaxant. It works by blocking the action of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, thereby inhibiting the transmission of nerve impulses and causing muscle relaxation.

Clinical Use

Hexafluronium is used in anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation, and to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery or mechanical ventilation. It is also used in the management of certain types of muscle spasticity.

Side Effects

Like other neuromuscular-blocking agents, hexafluronium can cause a range of side effects, including hypotension, bradycardia, and anaphylaxis. Prolonged paralysis and muscle weakness may also occur.

History

Hexafluronium was first synthesized in the 1950s as part of a series of quaternary ammonium muscle relaxants. It was introduced into clinical practice in the 1960s.

See Also

• Neuromuscular-blocking drug
• Anesthesia
• Muscle relaxant