Class
Description
Onset and Duration
Indications
Contraindications
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
How Supplied
Dosage and Administration
Special Considerations
Neuromuscular blocker (depolarizing)
Succinyl Choline has the briefest duration of action of all neuromuscular blocking drugs, making it a drug of choice for such procedures as terminating laryngospasm, endotracheal intubation, and electroconvulsive shock therapy. Like nondepolarizing blockers, depolarizing drugs also bind to the receptors for acetylcholine. However, because they cause depolarization of the muscle membrane, they often lead to fasciculations and some muscular contractions.
To facilitate intubation
To terminate laryngospasm
For muscle relaxation
Penetrating eye injury (succinyl choline increases intraocular pressure)
Inability to control airway or support ventilations with oxygen and positive pressure
Hypotension
Bradycardias
Dysrhythmias
Initial muscle fasciculation
Excessive salivation
Malignant hyperthermia
Allergic reaction
Can exacerbate hyperkalemia in trauma patients (hours posttrauma)
Oxytocin, beta blockers, and organophosphates may potentiate effects.
Diazepam may reduce duration of action.
Cardiac glycosides may induce dysrhythmias.
40 mg in 2-ml ampule (20 mg/ml)
100 mg in 5-ml ampule (20 mg/ml)
Multidose vial
Pregnancy safety: Category C.
Carefully monitor the patient and be prepared to resuscitate.
Administer with caution to patients with severe trauma, burns, and electrolvte imbalances (high potassium levels).
Brain or spinal cord injury may prolong effects.
Children are not as sensitive to succinyl choline on a weight basis as adults and may require higher doses.
Succinyl choline has no effect on consciousness or pain.
Will not stop neuronal seizure activity.