Rocuronium Mnemonic
ROCURONIUM
Rapid onset for quick action
Operative procedures
Curare-like action
Used in intubation
Reversible with Sugammadex and Neostigmine
Observe for rash and respiratory paralysis
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors antagonist
Intravenous administration only
Unique due to intermediate duration
Monitoring required
Here are some key points about Rocuronium that might be useful for your board exam review:
Classification: Rocuronium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocker.
Mechanism of Action: It competes with acetylcholine for binding to nicotinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle paralysis.
Clinical Uses:
- Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI): Commonly used to facilitate tracheal intubation.
- Skeletal Muscle Relaxation: Used during surgery to provide muscle relaxation.
Pharmacokinetics:
- Onset of Action: Rapid, typically within 1-2 minutes.
- Duration of Action: Intermediate, lasting about 30-60 minutes.
- Metabolism and Elimination: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine and bile.
Side Effects: May include hypotension, hypertension, tachycardia, and bronchospasm.
Reversal: The effects of rocuronium can be reversed with cholinesterase inhibitors like neostigmine, often combined with glycopyrrolate to counteract muscarinic side effects.
For more anesthesiology mnemonics check this mnemonic book.
This post covers the points you need to know for your board exams as well as for teaching residents on the daily rounds. Medical professionals can't use the information here to treat their patients nor people can use the information her to treat themselves. If you are having any medical issues, contact your local emergency services or your primary care provider. Please refer to your doctor for medical advice.