Suxamethonium Flashcards
1
Q
Class
A
Nicotinic receptor
agonist
2
Q
Mechanism of action
A
Action on nicotinic receptors produces maintained depolarisation of the muscle membrane This inactivates the Na+ channels which propagate the action potential throughout the muscle
3
Q
Clinical use
A
Hyperkalaemia Hypotension Bradycardia Muscle pain Raised intraocular pressure Hyperthermia
4
Q
Adverse effects
A
Short lasting paralysis to aid tracheal intubation and for short operative procedures Action is not reversed by anticholinesterases
5
Q
Actions
A
Short lasting paralysis
of skeletal muscle
6
Q
Suxamethonium mode of action
A
is to mimic acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction
7
Q
what is the problem with Suxamethonium
A
Suxamethonium is hydrolysed much slower than acetylcholine, causing prolonged depolarisation and therefore desensitisation, and muscle relaxation
8
Q
when is Suxamethonium given
A
is given after a general anaesthetic as muscle relaxation can be preceded by painful muscle fasciculations.
9
Q
how do you potentiate the neuromuscular block.
A
when anticholinesterases such as neostigmine is given alongside Suxamethonium
