NEUROMUSCULAR EFFECTS OF SUXAMETHONIUM IN MAN

Summary: The neuromuscular effects of suxamethonium (single dose and continuous infusion) were determined in anaesthetized patients. A marked variation in patient response was observed. The block was initially depolarizing but with increasing dosage and time became desensitizing. Tachyphylaxis was observed with repeated doses of suxamethonium but not with continuous infusion. The depth of anaesthesia was an important factor in determining the amount of suxamethonium required to produce satisfactory operating conditions. If suxamethonium was infused continuously for no more than 1 hour or infused intermittently for several hours, recovery was always rapid (3-21 minutes). However, in four of nine patients who received suxamethonium by continuous infusion for 2 hours recovery required 51-69 minutes. © 1969 John Sherratt and Son Ltd.