Vecuronium
Uses of Vecuronium
Vecuronium primarily serves as a muscle relaxant utilised during surgical procedures and belongs to the group of neuromuscular blocking agents.
Besides providing muscle relaxation during surgeries, it is also used to facilitate endotracheal intubation and maintain muscle relaxation during general anaesthesia. It can be particularly valuable for procedures requiring profound muscle relaxation, such as abdominal, orthopaedic, and neurological surgeries.
Side effects of Vecuronium
Muscle weakness
Respiratory depression
Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Allergic reactions
How Vecuronium works
Vecuronium is a non-depolarising neuromuscular blocking agent.
It works by competitively binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, thereby inhibiting the action of acetylcholine. This prevents nerve impulses from initiating muscle contractions, leading to muscle relaxation. The effects of Vecuronium are reversible and can be counteracted with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as neostigmine, which helps restore muscle function when necessary.
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Written By
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Reviewed By
Doctor of Medicine
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Vecuronium is available in injection form for intravenous infusion.
Age and Dose Restrictions
Vecuronium is approved for use in adults, including elderly individuals, as well as in children of all age groups, including newborns.
Contraindications
Vecuronium is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to vecuronium or any other neuromuscular blocking agents.
It is also contraindicated in patients with neuromuscular diseases and those who have a history of malignant hyperthermia.
Other Medications to Avoid
Vecuronium can interact with inhalational anaesthetics (eg., enflurane, isoflurane, and halothane), other nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents (eg., pancuronium, d-tubocurarine, metocurine, and gallamine)and antibiotics (eg., gentamicin, doxycycline).
Overdose and Missed Dose
Chances for an overdose of this medicine are less as it is administered to you by a healthcare professional. However, an overdose of Vecuronium may cause prolonged muscle paralysis, respiratory depression, and even cardiovascular collapse. If suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary.
As Vecuronium is administered by healthcare professionals during surgical procedures or mechanical ventilation, there is very low risk of missed doses. However, if it happens due to any reason, the doctor will decide the next step based on the patient's condition.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.
If experiencing dry mouth, sip water frequently or chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
For feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, try to move slowly when getting up from a lying or sitting position.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Vecuronium may cause drowsiness or dizziness which may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is advisable to avoid such activities after receiving this medication.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless recommended by your doctor. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with liver diseases like cirrhosis or cholestasis should use Vecuronium with caution as the recovery times may be prolonged. Similarly, patients with respiratory diseases may need careful monitoring while receiving this medication. Despite having renal failure, patients can still take Vecuronium as recovery times do not differ significantly from healthy patients.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Get adequate rest and sleep to help the body recover, especially after surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Is Vecuronium a steroid?
No, Vecuronium is not a steroid. It is a neuromuscular blocking agent, which means it helps to relax the muscles during surgical procedures.
Does Vecuronium have any effect on sleep?
Vecuronium is not directly associated with sleep patterns. However, as it is used for anaesthesia during surgeries, it may induce unconsciousness during the procedure.
Will Vecuronium affect fertility?
Vecuronium is not directly associated with fertility in men or women. If you have any concerns related to fertility, discus with your doctor.
Is Vecuronium available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
Vecuronium is a prescription medicine, usually administered by healthcare professionals. It is not available over the counter.
Is it safe to use Vecuronium daily?
Vecuronium is not intended for daily use. It is administered by healthcare professionals during surgical procedures or mechanical ventilation.
How much time does Vecuronium take to work?
Vecuronium acts quickly upon administration. The onset of action varies from person to person but typically begins within one to three minutes.
What is the duration of treatment with Vecuronium?
The duration of treatment with Vecuronium depends on the length of the surgical procedure or requirement for mechanical ventilation, as determined by the healthcare professionals.
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