American journal of therapeutics
-
Although neuromuscular block (NMB) allows immobility for airway management and surgical exposure, termination of its effect is limited by and associated with side effects of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. Sugammadex is a selective relaxant binding agent that has been shown to reverse deep NMB, even when administered 3 minutes following a 1.2 mg/kg dose of rocuronium. ⋯ In addition, clinical trials on special patient populations (patients with pulmonary disease and renal insufficiency) are evaluated. Each article reviewed will conclude with a discussion of relevance, focus on adverse event profile, and clinical usefulness.
-
Muscle relaxants are used in the perioperative period to aid in endotracheal intubation, facilitate surgical exposure, and in the critical care setting for prolonged relaxation. Until now, the only mechanism to reverse their effect is acetylcholinesterase inhibitors that result in excess parasympathetic activity and require the second drug to prevent this side effect. ⋯ It quickly, effectively, and safely reverses steroidal neuromuscular blockers by encapsulating the muscle relaxant and rendering it inactive. Sugammadex may be considered the ideal reversal agent and the first drug in its class, which will likely change the practice of anesthesia and clinical neuromuscular pharmacology.