Atracurium Besylate Injection USP

Composition and Pharmacology

– Atracurium Besylate Injection contains 10 mg/ml of atracurium besylate and water for injection.

– It is a non-depolarizing muscle relaxant that inhibits neuromuscular transmission by competitively displacing acetylcholine at the motor endplate.

– The onset and duration of action are dose-dependent, with a half-life of 20 to 30 minutes

– Atracurium is inactivated through Hofmann elimination and ester hydrolysis, unaffected by variations in blood pH or body temperature.

Indications and Usage

– Indicated as an adjunct to general anesthesia for muscle relaxation, facilitating endotracheal intubation, and mechanical ventilation in ICU patients.

– Not recommended for use in neonates due to insufficient data.

Contraindications and Interactions

– Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to atracurium or its excipients.

– Interactions may occur with inhalation anesthetics, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and other drugs, potentially increasing the effects of atracurium.

Warnings and Precautions

– Should only be administered by skilled practitioners with facilities for ventilation support available.

– Caution is advised in patients with myasthenia gravis or severe electrolyte disorders, as they may require reduced dosages.

Side Effects

– Common side effects include tachycardia, mild hypotension, bronchospasm, and urticaria.

– Very rare but serious effects include anaphylactic reactions and seizures in susceptible patients.

Dosage and Administration

– Initial bolus dose for intubation is 0.3 to 0.6 mg/kg, with maintenance doses of 0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg during prolonged procedures

– Continuous infusion rates for ICU patients can vary widely based on individual responses.