Cisatracurium Besylate

Generic Name: cisatracurium besylate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Cisatracurium Besylate

Cisatracurium besylate is a nondepolarizing skeletal neuromuscular blocker with intermediate onset and duration, used as an adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation and provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery and mechanical ventilation.

Overview

Cisatracurium besylate is a nondepolarizing skeletal neuromuscular blocker with intermediate onset and duration, used as an adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation and provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery and mechanical ventilation.

Uses

Adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation in adults and pediatric patients 1 month to 12 years of age. Provides skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery and mechanical ventilation in ICU settings.

Dosage

Initial bolus doses of 0.15 to 0.2 mg/kg for adults with specific guidance for pediatric, geriatric, and special populations. Continuous infusion rates range from 1 to 2 mcg/kg/minute for maintenance. Requires careful dosing based on patient population.

Side Effects

Most common adverse effects include bradycardia, hypotension, flushing, bronchospasm, and rash, occurring at rates below 0.4%.

Interactions

Certain medications potentiate effects, including inhalational anesthetics, antibiotics, and magnesium salts. Phenytoin and carbamazepine may reduce efficacy.

Warnings

Risks include residual paralysis, benzyl alcohol toxicity in infants, seizure potential from metabolites, hypersensitivity reactions, medication errors, and inadequate anesthesia complications. Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to cisatracurium. 10 mL multiple-dose vials contraindicated for pediatric patients under 1 month due to benzyl alcohol.

Pregnancy

Animal studies showed no evidence of fetal harm at 0.8 times human exposure. No clinical trial data available on cisatracurium use in pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cisatracurium Besylate used for?

Adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation in adults and pediatric patients 1 month to 12 years of age. Provides skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery and mechanical ventilation in ICU settings.

What are the side effects of Cisatracurium Besylate?

Most common adverse effects include bradycardia, hypotension, flushing, bronchospasm, and rash, occurring at rates below 0.4%.

Can I take Cisatracurium Besylate during pregnancy?

Animal studies showed no evidence of fetal harm at 0.8 times human exposure. No clinical trial data available on cisatracurium use in pregnancy.

What are the important warnings for Cisatracurium Besylate?

Risks include residual paralysis, benzyl alcohol toxicity in infants, seizure potential from metabolites, hypersensitivity reactions, medication errors, and inadequate anesthesia complications. Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to cisatracurium. 10 mL multiple-dose vials contraindicated for pediatric patients under 1 month due to benzyl alcohol.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.