Suxamethonium |
Presentation |
• 100mg in 2ml amp | ||||||||||||
Pharmacology |
• Depolarising neuromuscular blocking agent | ||||||||||||
Actions |
• Short acting muscular relaxant | ||||||||||||
Metabolism |
• Pseudo-cholinesterase in plasma | ||||||||||||
Primary Emergency Indications |
• Complete muscle relaxation to allow endotracheal intubation Adult | ||||||||||||
Contraindications |
• Known hypersensitivity • Upper airway obstruction • Severe respiratory distress • Penetrating eye injury • ECG signs of hyperkalaemia in conditions such as muscle necrosis and renal failure • Burns >24hrs post injury • Organophosphate poisoning • Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm • Known history of Suxamethonium apnoea • Known history of malignant hyperthermia |
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Precautions |
• Liver disease • Elderly Pts • Crush injuries • Pts who have not fasted • Airway trauma |
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Route of Administration |
• IV | ||||||||||||
Side Effects |
• Muscular fasciculation • Increase in intraocular pressure • Increase in intragastric pressure • Elevated serum potassium levels |
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Special Notes |
• Sedation is required prior to use • Atropine (600mcg) should be administered prior to Suxamethonium administration in adult Pts with a HR <60 • Atropine 20mcg/kg should be administered prior to Suxamethonium administration in children - (Qualified MICA Flight Paramedics only) • A second dose of Suxamethonium usually causes profound bradycardia • Refrigeration of Suxamethonium is required - requires weekly rotation or disposal when not refrigerated • Usual dosage: - Adults: 1.5mg/kg IV - Children: 1–2mg/kg IV (Qualified MICA Flight Paramedics only) |
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Therapeutic Effect |
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