Atracurium (Injection)

Introduction:

Atracurium

Relaxes your muscles during surgery.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to atracurium besylate.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using medicines to treat an infection such as amikacin, gentamicin, Garamycin®, streptomycin, or Neosporin®, or polymyxins.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicines for heart rhythm problems such as quinidine (Cardioquin®, Quinaglute®, or Quinidex®). Tell your doctor if you are using procainamide (Procanbid®), lithium, or magnesium salts.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
  • Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, asthma, tumors, or severe allergies.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have a muscle disease such as myasthenia gravis or Eaton-Lambert syndrome.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Abnormal rise in body temperature.
  • Fast or slow heartbeat.
  • Fever, sweating, or confusion.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Severe redness or warmth on your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Numbness or tingling in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
  • Redness, pain, swelling, itching, or blistering where the needle is placed.
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