Drugs That Relax
Muscles
(Neuromuscular Blocking Drugs)
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The Generic (common) Name of the drug is
listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name,
which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more
about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or
Product Name.
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Examples:
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What are
neuromuscular blocking drugs?
These drugs completely relax most of the muscles so that a
person is temporarily unable to move. Neuromuscular blocking
drugs are used only in patients on breathing machines. Some
patients have a difficult time relaxing when on a breathing
machine and may want to breathe out while the machine is
breathing in. These drugs relax the muscles and improve the
effectiveness of the breathing machine. Since breathing
muscles are affected, the patient needs to be on a breathing
machine when these drugs are being used. They do not affect
the heart muscle.
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Why are they
given?
The doctor determines that the patient's muscles are working
so hard that they are causing harm to the body. Most
commonly this occurs with patients that require the
breathing machine. These are very powerful drugs and are
used only under careful supervision by the doctor and nurse.
These drugs are used only when absolutely necessary. A
patient on this type of drug is also given a sedative and
pain medication to eliminate any unpleasant sensations.
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How long are
they used?
Normally these drugs are used for hours to days only. The
patient is not able to talk or move while on these drugs.
Ask the doctor or nurse how long the patient will receive
this drug.
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Do they have
side effects?
Side effects do occur. Some are minor and some are
potentially serious. Some people have a short period of
muscle weakness even after the drug has been stopped.
Occasionally patients develop prolonged weakness after
receiving these medications. Often the doctor or nurse will
decrease the dose or stop the drug briefly each day to
assess the patient's need for the drug.
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