Updated May 30, 2026, 4:23 PM
Neuromuscular blocker (nondepolarizing)US FDA Database Verified

cisatracurium (Rx)

Generic: Cisatracurium

Brand: Nimbex

(sis-a-tra-cyoor'ee-um)

Pregnancy Category: B

Pharmacological Action

Inhibits transmission of nerve impulses by binding with cholinergic receptor sites, antagonizing action of acetylcholine

Therapeutic outcome: Paralysis of body for administration of anesthesia

Uses

Facilitation of endotracheal intubation, skeletal muscle relaxation during mechanical ventilation surgery, or general anesthesia

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Precautions: Pregnancy B, breastfeeding, children <2 yr, electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, cardiac/neuromuscular/respiratory disease

Dosage & Routes

Adult: IV 0.15 and 0.2 mg/kg depending on desired time to intubate and length of surgery: use peripheral nerve stimulation to evaluate dosage Child 2-12 yr: IV 0.1 mg/kg over 5-10 sec with halothane or opioid anesthesia

Available forms: Inj 2, 10 mg/ml

Implementation - Use nerve stimulator by anesthesiologist to determine neuromuscular blockade - Give anticholinesterase to reverse neuromuscular blockade - Give by slow IV only by qualified person; do not administer IM - Store in light-resistant area - Reassure if communication is difficult during recovery from neuromuscular blockage

Adverse Effects

CV: Bradycardia, tachycardia; increased, decreased B/P

EENT: Increased secretions

INTEG: Rash, flushing, pruritus, urticaria

RESP: Prolonged apnea, bronchospasm, cyanosis, respiratory depression

Pharmacokinetics

Unknown

Pharmacodynamics

Onset 1-3 min, Peak 2-5 min, Duration 30-40 min

Interactions

Individual drugs CarBAMazepine, phenytoin: decreased duration of neuromuscular blockade Isoflurane, lithium: increased neuromuscular blockade

Succinylcholine: decreased neuromuscular blockade

Drug classifications Aminoglycosides, antibiotics (polymix), β-adrenergic blockers, opioids: increased neuromuscular blockade

Nursing Considerations

Assessment - Assess for electrolyte imbalances (K, Mg), may lead to increased action of this product - Assess vital signs (B/P, pulse, respirations, airway) until fully recovered; rate, depth, pattern of respirations; strength of handgrip - Assess • I&O ratio: check for urinary retention, frequency, hesitancy - Assess recovery: decreased paralysis of face, diaphragm, legs, arms, rest of body - Assess allergic reactions: rash, fever, respiratory distress, pruritus; product should be discontinued

Evaluation

Positive therapeutic outcome: Paralysis of jaw, eyelid, head, neck, rest of body

Reference

Mosby's Drug Guide; Davis Drug Guide

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