Suxamethonium
Also known as: Anectine, Quelicin
This medication is a specialized muscle relaxant used strictly in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. It is used to relax muscles during surgery or to help place a breathing tube. It is never prescribed for home use.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Muscle fasciculations
- Hyperkalemia
- Bradycardia or arrhythmias
- Malignant hyperthermia
- Increased intraocular pressure
- Increased intragastric pressure
- Prolonged apnea
Cautions & contraindications
- Patients with pre-existing hyperkalemia
- Glaucoma or penetrating eye injuries
- Severe liver disease
- Patients with known atypical plasma pseudocholinesterase
- Conscious patients (must be fully anesthetized)
- > **Requires mechanical ventilation**. Do not use without the immediate ability to intubate and ventilate the patient. > **No analgesic properties**: Does not provide analgesia or sedation; ensure adequate depth of anesthesia before administration. > **Hyperkalemia risk**: Use with extreme caution in patients with extensive tissue trauma, burns, or upper motor neuron lesions due to the risk of severe hyperkalemia.
Drug interactions
- Organophosphates: Inhibit pseudocholinesterase, leading to significantly prolonged neuromuscular blockade
- Carbamates: Inhibit pseudocholinesterase, leading to significantly prolonged neuromuscular blockade
- Aminoglycosides: May enhance or prolong neuromuscular blockade
- Volatile anesthetics: Enhanced neuromuscular blockade and increased risk of malignant hyperthermia
Frequently asked questions
What is Suxamethonium used for in pets?
This medication is a specialized muscle relaxant used strictly in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. It is used to relax muscles during surgery or to help place a breathing tube. It is never prescribed for home use.
Is Suxamethonium safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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