Succinylcholine - Stepwards

Page Contents

1 WHAT IS IT?
2 WHEN DO WE USE IT?
3 WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?
4 HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?
5 WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?
6 FURTHER READING

WHAT IS IT?

Succinylcholine is a strong acetylcholine receptor agonist. It produces sustained depolarization and is classified as a neuromuscular blocking agent.

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

Skeletal muscle relaxation for short periods of time.

Rapid-sequence intubation

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?

Patients with personal history/family history of malignant hyperthermia

HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

IV administration is preferred however this medication can also be given IM.

Succinylcholine is the other example of a "classic" cause of malignant hyperthermia (source) — Source

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare but serious side effect of this medicament.

WHAT IS IT?

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?

HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

FURTHER READING