Influence of suxamethonium on the action of subsequently administered vecuronium or pancuronium

Abstract

The effects of suxamethonium were studied on the onset time and duration of action of vecuronium or pancuronium in 45 adult patients anaesthetized with halothane and nitrous oxide. After an intubating dose of suxamethonium, the force of the evoked twitch returned to a value greater than control. The onset of the reduction in force produced by subsequent administration of vecuronium or pancuronium was faster and recovery slower. This potentiating effect of suxamethonium persisted for at least 2 h. © 1989 Copyright: 1989 British Journal of Anaesthesia.