Succinylcholine (Anectine®)

Question 1

Anectine - Class

Answer 1

Neuromuscular blocking agent (depolarizing)

Question 2

Anectine - Actions

Answer 2

• Skeletal muscle paralysis (including respiratory muscles)
• Prevents neuromuscular transmission by blocking the effect of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction
• Has no analgesic or anxiolyltic effects

Question 3

Anectine - Indications

Answer 3

• Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI)

* Skeletal muscle paralysis to facilitate endotracheal intubation

Question 4

Anectine - Dosage/Route

Answer 4

1.5 mg/kg IVP (over 10-30 sec.)

Question 5

Anectine - Side Effects

Answer 5

• Prolonged paralysis
• Hypotension
• Bradycardia (especially in children

Question 6

Anectine - Contraindications

Answer 6

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug
• Children & neonates
• Known or suspected hyperkalemia

Question 7

Anectine - Special Information

Answer 7

• Should not be administered unless persons skilled in endotracheal intubation are present
• ET equipment must be available & working
• O2 equipment, ventilatory management equipment, and emergency resuscitative equipment/drugs must be available
• Paralysis occurs within 1 min. and lasts for approximately 8 min.
• Has no effect on consciousness or pain threshold, thus adequate amnesia/analgesic should ALWAYS be used concurrently

Question 8

Anectine - Pediatric Note

Answer 8

Not recommended