Onset of action of relaxants

Abstract

Even with the introduction of the priming technique, the time course of succinylcholine blockade is thus far unrivalled.54 Large doses may be administered to obtain profound relaxation without undue concern about recovery. However, many clinicians prefer the use of atracurium or vecuronium because of the side effects of succinylcholine. The induction technique must then allow for the longer onset time of the non-depolarizing blockers and the inadvisability of administering large doses for short duration procedures. Until a shorter acting non-depolarizer is available, anaesthetists will have to choose and base their decision on their own experience, the expected duration of the procedure, and most importantly, a good evaluation of the patient. © 1988 Canadian Anesthesiologists.