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Side Effects of Vecuronium

Vecuronium, only sold generically, is a drug that is used as a muscle relaxer during surgery. Use of this product has been known to cause various severe side effects in rare cases. Occurrence of side effects is dependent on the individual user and the size of the dose.

  1. Identification

    • Vecuronium is a prescription muscle relaxer often used as a general anesthesia before surgery. It is classified as a neuromuscular blocking agent. By blocking nerve transmissions in the muscles, it produces muscle relaxation and paralysis. In doing so, Vecuronium serves to keep the body still to accommodate precise surgery. It is also useful in relaxing the throat to allow the insertion of a breathing tube.

    Serious Side Effects

    • In small doses, users of vecuronium have reported no common side effects. Users may, however, experience a variety of serious side effects including dizziness, fever, irregular heartbeat, slow heartbeat, muscle weakness and difficulty breathing. Vecuronium use my also trigger a severe allergic reaction causing swelling of the face or throat and severe skin irritation.

    Drug Interactions

    • Vecuronium may affect users adversely if they are currently using any of the the following drugs: clindamycin, magnesium salts, aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, verapamil, other neuromuscular blockers and tetracyclines. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are using any of these medications before using Vecuronium.

    Safe Use

    • Vecuronium should only be injected by a doctor or medical professional. Confirm that the medication is clear and the vial is not cracked before injecting. Avoid any food or beverages restricted by your doctor before use. Be sure to make your doctor aware of the presence of any other medications your may be taking before you are given Vecuronium. Consult with the full list of possible drug interactions before taking Vecuronium.

    Warning

    • Vecuronium may cause the potentially fatal condition, Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Use with extreme caution in the elderly and children under the age of 7 weeks. Never use Vecuronium in newborns. Individuals who have suffered from heart disease may be more susceptible to changes in heart-rate and circulation.

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