Rocuronium
Classification
high alert medication
Nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent
Indications
CCP: Areflexia for rapid sequence intubation
Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity or allergy to rocuronium bromide or any component of the formulation
Adult dosages
CCP: Areflexia for rapid sequence intubation
- 0.6-1.2 mg/kg IV
- Based on actual body weight
Pediatric Considerations And Dosing
CCP: Areflexia for rapid sequence intubation
- For patients between 3 months and 14 years of age
- 0.6 mg/kg IV
Mechanism Of Action
Produces skeletal muscle relaxation by inhibiting the activity of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. Does not alter the resting electrical potential of the motor end plate, or cause muscular contraction.
Pharmocokinetics
Intravenous:
- Onset: 1-1.5 minutes for clinically sufficient neuromuscular blockade
- Peak: 3-4 minutes
- Duration:
- Doses of 0.6 mg/kg: 30 minutes
- Doses of 1.2 mg/kg: 67 minutes
- Doses of 2 mg/kg: 110 minutes
Adverse Effects
Skeletal muscle weakness
Warning And Precautions
warning
Administration of rocuronium produces paralysis and compromises respiratory function. Rocuronium must only be used by paramedics trained and experienced in its use, and where effective oxygenation and ventilation can be maintained.
Drug Interactions
Succinylcholine: administer rocuronium only after the patient has recovered from succinylcholine-induced neuromuscular blockade
Magnesium sulfate: increases duration of neuromuscular blockade from rocuronium