Suberyldicholine

A detailed overview of Suberyldicholine, a neuromuscular blocking agent

Suberyldicholine is a synthetic neuromuscular blocking agent that has been studied for its potential use in anesthesia and surgery. It is a bis-quaternary ammonium compound that acts as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker, similar to succinylcholine.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Suberyldicholine is a dicarboxylic acid derivative with two quaternary ammonium groups. Its chemical structure is characterized by a long aliphatic chain that connects the two ammonium groups, which is responsible for its ability to interact with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction.

Mechanism of Action

Suberyldicholine works by mimicking the action of acetylcholine, the natural neurotransmitter at the neuromuscular junction. It binds to the nicotinic receptors on the motor end plate of the muscle fiber, causing an initial depolarization. This depolarization leads to muscle contraction, but because suberyldicholine is not rapidly degraded by acetylcholinesterase, it causes prolonged depolarization, leading to muscle paralysis.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of suberyldicholine are similar to those of other depolarizing neuromuscular blockers. It is rapidly distributed in the body and has a short duration of action due to its rapid hydrolysis by plasma cholinesterase. However, its duration of action can be prolonged in individuals with pseudocholinesterase deficiency.

Clinical Use

Suberyldicholine has been investigated for use in situations where rapid onset and short duration of muscle relaxation are desired, such as in endotracheal intubation. However, its clinical use is limited due to the availability of other agents like succinylcholine, which have more favorable profiles.

Side Effects

The side effects of suberyldicholine are similar to those of other depolarizing neuromuscular blockers. These can include:

• Hyperkalemia
• Bradycardia
• Malignant hyperthermia
• Prolonged apnea in patients with pseudocholinesterase deficiency

Research and Development

Research into suberyldicholine has provided insights into the design of neuromuscular blocking agents and the structure-activity relationships of bis-quaternary ammonium compounds. It has also contributed to the understanding of the pharmacology of depolarizing neuromuscular blockers.

Also see

• Succinylcholine
• Neuromuscular junction
• Acetylcholine
• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
• Anesthesia