Succinylcholine

Question 1

What are the indications for succinylcholine (Anectine)?

Answer 1

Medication facilitated intubation after administration of sedation/analgesia; considered agent of choice due to short duration and rapid onset

Question 2

What is the ADULT dose for succinylcholine (Anectine)?

Answer 2

1 - 1.5 mg/kg IVP, repeat at half dose if required

If repeat dose is required, administer Atropine 0.5 mg to inhibit bradycardia response.

Question 3

What is the pediatric dose for succinylcholine (Anectine)?

Answer 3

2mg/kg IVP, no repeat as second dose can cause bradycardia.

Question 4

List contraindications for succinylcholine (Anectine).

Answer 4

• Hypersensitivity
• Penetrating ocular trauma or glaucoma
• Pseudocholinesterase deficiency
• Known family or personal history of malignant hyperthermia
  ❑ Patients in whom hyperkalemia may be dangerous:
• chronic renal failure with unknown potassium levels
• patients with spastic muscles (eg. muscular dystrophy, spastic paralysis)
• burn and crush injury patients after 24hrs post injury
  ❑ A difficult intubation in a patient who is presently self ventilating adequately and ventilation may be difficult once paralyzed

Question 5

You gave succinylcholine and now your patient is presenting with Malignant hyperthermia. What drug is given at hospital to reverse this?

Answer 5

Dantrolene