Suxethonium chloride

Suxamethonium chloride (also known as succinylcholine) is a medication used primarily in the field of anesthesia. It is a neuromuscular-blocking drug or muscle relaxant that induces temporary paralysis by causing a depolarizing block at motor end-plates in the myoneural junction.

History

Suxamethonium chloride was first discovered in the early 20th century. It was initially used in the field of ophthalmology before its muscle relaxant properties were discovered. It has since become a staple in the field of anesthesia.

Pharmacology

Suxamethonium chloride acts by imitating the natural neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It binds to the acetylcholine receptors at the motor end-plate, causing depolarization. This depolarization leads to an influx of sodium ions and efflux of potassium ions, resulting in muscle paralysis.

Medical uses

Suxamethonium chloride is used in anesthesia to facilitate endotracheal intubation and to provide muscle relaxation during surgery or mechanical ventilation. It is also used in emergency medicine for its rapid onset of action.

Side effects

The most common side effects of suxamethonium chloride include increased intraocular pressure, muscle pain, and changes in heart rate. Rare but serious side effects include malignant hyperthermia, a potentially fatal reaction to certain drugs used during general anesthesia.

Contraindications

Suxamethonium chloride is contraindicated in people with personal or family history of malignant hyperthermia, known hypersensitivity to the drug, or abnormal plasma cholinesterase activity.

See also

• Neuromuscular-blocking drug
• Anesthesia
• Acetylcholine