Decamethonium

Decamethonium is a synthetic alkane bisammonium compound used as a neuromuscular-blocking drug or muscle relaxant in anesthesia. It is a depolarizing neuromuscular-blocking drug, causing persistent depolarization of the motor end plate. It is no longer in clinical use in developed countries due to the risk of histamine release and cardiovascular side effects.

Etymology

The name "Decamethonium" is derived from its structure, as it is a decane with two ammonium groups.

Pharmacology

Decamethonium primarily acts by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, at the neuromuscular junction. This results in muscle paralysis, which is useful in surgical procedures where muscle relaxation is required. However, its use has been largely discontinued due to the risk of severe side effects.

Side Effects

The side effects of Decamethonium include hypotension, bradycardia, and arrhythmias. These are primarily due to the release of histamine from mast cells. It can also cause an increase in intraocular pressure, which can be problematic in patients with glaucoma.

History

Decamethonium was first synthesized in the 1940s and was used in anesthesia for several decades. However, its use has been largely discontinued due to the development of safer and more effective neuromuscular-blocking drugs.

See Also

• Neuromuscular-blocking drug
• Anesthesia
• Acetylcholine

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