ATRACURIUM BESYLATE

Background and Date of Approval

The U.S. FDA approved Atracurium Besylate on July 18, 1997. Atracurium Besylate is a muscle relaxant that works by blocking the transmission of nerve signals to muscles.

Uses

Atracurium Besylate is used in various medical settings, including surgeries, other medical procedures, and intensive care units. It is used specifically during general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation (insertion of a tube into the windpipe) and to enable controlled ventilation.

How is it administered?

Atracurium Besylate will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered in a vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Atracurium Besylate are tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), temporary hypotension (low blood pressure), wheezing, bronchospasm (asthma-like symptoms), skin flushing, and urticaria (nettle rash).

Warnings

Atracurium Besylate should not be consumed if you are allergic to Atracurium Besylate or any of its ingredients in the medication. Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to Atracurium Besylate or any of its ingredients. Before starting the treatment, notify your doctor if you have if you have a neuromuscular disease that affects your muscles or their nervous control, such as myasthenia gravis or Eaton-Lambert syndrome. Additionally, inform your doctor if you have a severe electrolyte disorder, widespread cancer (carcinomatosis), or sensitivity to histamine. This medicine is not recommended for neonates (children under one month old). If necessary, the dose should be significantly reduced for newborns or premature babies.

Precautions

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Mention any history of allergy, asthma, or bronchospasm, as well as any burns or issues related to inadequate circulatory filling (hypovolemia). For further questions or concerns, consult your doctor.

Word of Advice

Inform your doctor of any serious side effects to help prevent associated complications. Before beginning treatment, disclose all underlying medical conditions to your doctor. This information ensures safe and effective use of Atracurium during medical procedures. Report any serious side effects to your doctor. Your medical professional will advise if dose adjustments are necessary. Contact your doctor for further information. Keep the medicine out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not freeze the medicine. Store between 2°C - 8°C. Always verify the expiry date before use.

References

Mercury Pharmaceuticals Limited; Electronic medicines compendium (emc); [Revised on April 2020] [ Accessed on 27th July 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2797.pdf Baxter Healthcare Corporation; US Food and Drug Administration; [Revised on June 2019] [Accessed on 27th July 2023], label (fda.gov) Drugs.com; [Revised on March 2023] [ Accessed on 27th July 2023], Atracurium Besylate Injection: Package Insert - Drugs.com Satyanarayana U, Chakrapani U, Biochemistry, Mineral metabolism, 4th edition, 2013, 404.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Atracurium Besylate used for?

Atracurium Besylate is used in various medical settings, including surgeries, other medical procedures, and intensive care units. It is used specifically during general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation (insertion of a tube into the windpipe) and to enable controlled ventilation.

Can I administer Atracurium Besylate at home?

No, Atracurium Besylate should only be administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. Please do not self-administer.

Can Atracurium Besylate injections be given to pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Atracurium Besylate injection should not be given to pregnant or breastfeeding women unless recommended by a doctor.

Can I use Atracurium Besylate with other medications?

Before starting the treatment, it is essential to consult your doctor, as they can interact with various other medications. Getting suggestions from your doctor will help to ensure the safe and appropriate use of Atracurium Besylate with your current medication regimen.

What are the side effects of Atracurium Besylate?

The most common side effects of Atracurium Besylate are tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), temporary hypotension (low blood pressure), wheezing, bronchospasm (asthma-like symptoms), skin flushing, and urticaria (nettle rash) are possible side effects. If you experience any side effects that are bothersome or do not go away, talk to your doctor.

Available Brands 11

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS