CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE
Background and Date of Approval
Cisatracurium Besylate is a musculoskeletal medicine classified as a non-depolarising neuromuscular blocker. It was approved by the FDA on 1st September 2020 for medical use.
Uses
It is used to relax muscles during operations on adults and children over one month of age, including heart surgery. It is also indicated to support mechanical ventilation in the ICU for adult patients.
How is it administered?
Your physician or other healthcare professionals will give this injection to you. This injection will be given as a single injection into your vein or as a continuous infusion (slowly) into your vein. Your doctor will decide the dose and frequency of the medicine based on your disease condition, body weight, and other factors. Do not self-administer the medicine.
Side Effects
The common side effects of Cisatracurium Besylate are decreased heart rate and decreased blood pressure. Other serious side effects are severe skin reactions and weak, aching muscles.
Warnings
Do not take Cisatracurium Besylate if you are allergic to Cisatracurium Besylate or any of the other ingredients of this medicine. This medicine is not recommended in children less than 1-month-old. This medicine can cause severe hypersensitivity reactions and increase your risk of seizures. Inform your physician if you have any other neuromuscular diseases because this medicine can increase the risk of residual paralysis in patients with neuromuscular diseases.
Precautions
Inform your physician if you have muscle weakness, tiredness, or difficulty coordinating your movements. Tell your doctor if you have a history of neuromuscular disease and active skin burn. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant. This medicine can cause severe hypersensitivity reactions and increase your risk of seizures.
Word of Advice
Certain strengths of this medicine contain benzyl alcohol and are not suitable for premature infants. This medicine may cause muscle disorders, including paralysis, which can be life-threatening, increased risk of seizures, and malignant hyperthermia (a dangerous rise in body temperature). Your doctor will monitor your progress and this medicine's effects during regular visits. Attend all scheduled appointments.
References
Mylan UK healthcare limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on October 2021] [Accessed on 15th June 2023], http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2595/smpc GlaxoSmithKline, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on July 2018] [Accessed on 15th June 2023] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/20551Orig1s026lbl.pdf Marieke Kruidering-Hall, Lundy Campbell, Skeletal Muscle Relaxants, Langeâs Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 474-491.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cisatracurium Besylate a painkiller?
Cisatracurium Besylate is not a painkiller. It is a neuromuscular blocking agent that induces muscle relaxation during surgical procedures.
How long does the effect of Cisatracurium Besylate last?
The duration of the effect of Cisatracurium Besylate varies from patient to patient and depends on factors such as the dosage administered and individual metabolism. Generally, the effects last approximately 25 to 40 minutes, after which the muscle function gradually returns.
What are the side effects of Cisatracurium Besylate?
The common side effects of Cisatracurium besylate are a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Other serious side effects include severe skin reactions and muscle weakness.
Can Cisatracurium besylate be used in patients with kidney failure?
It is unknown whether cisatracurium besylate can be used in patients with kidney problems. Consult your physician if you have any kidney diseases before initiating the treatment.
Can I take antibiotics with Cisatracurium besylate?
Certain medications may interact with cisatracurium besylate and reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. Inform your physician about all the medicines that you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products