Vecuronium

• Vecuronium

• Norcuron

Classification:

• Neuromuscular-blocking agent (non-depolarizing)

Mechanism of Action:

• Skeletal muscle relaxant
• Paralyzes skeletal muscle including respiratory muscles
• Acts by competitively binding to nicotinic cholinergic receptors. The binding of vecuronium decreases the opportunity for acetylcholine to bind to the nicotinic receptor at the post junctional membrane of the muscular neural junction. As a result, depolarization is prevented, calcium ions are not released and muscle contraction does not occur.

Indications:

• To achieve paralysis to facilitate endotracheal intubation

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity

Precautions:

• Paralysis occurs within 1 min and lasts for approximately 30 mins

Adverse Effects:

• Prolonged paralysis
• Hypotension
• Bradycardia

Dose:

• 0.08 – 0.1 mg/kg

• IV

• Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)
• Pharmacology for the Prehospital Professional 2nd Edition