Rocuronium (Zemuron)

Question 1

Drug Classification

Answer 1

Non-Depolarizing neuromuscular blocker

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Nicotinic ACh R-antagonist

->competes with ACh at neuromuscular junction and prevents binding thus inhibiting skeletal muscle depolarization

Question 3

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 3

• Onset of Action- 60-70 seconds
• Peak Effects- 1-3 minutes
• Duration of Effects- 25-40 minutes
• Half-Life- 14-18 minutes

Question 4

Indications/Field Use

Answer 4

• Need for temporary paralysis to facilitate endotracheal intubation
• Need for continuous paralysis following endotracheal intubation

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity

Question 6

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Answer 6

Tachycardia, HTN/Hypotension, bronchospasm(rare)

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adult:
0.6-1.2mg/kg IV/IO

Pedi:
0.6 mg/kg IV/IO

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

Presence of neuromuscular diseases may be associated with prolonged paralysis

Question 9

Drug-Drug Interactions

Answer 9

Potentiated by lidocaine, procainamide, B blockers, K sparing diuretics, magnesium sulfate, and other neuromuscular blockers including Succinylcholine