VECURONIUM bromide, 10mg, powder, vial
Valid Article
VECURONIUM
Therapeutic Action
Neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA), non-depolarising, with an intermediate onset and duration of action.
Indications
Maintenance of neuromuscular block during surgery.
In critical care, neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are used for specific indications, including intubation, mechanical ventilation in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), acute asthma exacerbation, tetanus.
Vecuronium is considered a second choice non-depolarizing NMBA. It can be used an an alternative to rocuronium (first-choice non-depolarizing NMBA) in case of supply issue or import constraints with rocuronium.
Instructions for use
Reconstitute the powder vial with 5 ml of water for injection.
The reconstituted solution must be given as IV injection (bolus) or continuous IV infusion.
Systematically order neostigmine together with vecuronium.
Systematically order the corresponding pre-printed label to identify the syringe containing the product.
Rocuronium has a better profile than vecuronium as it allows to be used in the two scenarios : induction in rapid sequence and maintenance of neuromuscular block.
Precautions for Use
Vecuronium solution is not compatible with thiopental solution. Flush the tube before injecting vecuronium.
Caution concerning neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs)!
- NMBAs are high-risk medications: paralysing agent that may cause respiratory distress.
- They should only be administered in hospital settings by personnel experience in their use.
- Equipment for tracheal intubation and advanced airway assistance must be immediately available.
- Syringes containing an NMBA must be clearly identified with a standard pre-printed label corresponding to the product.
- Unused NMBAs must be disposed of appropriately if not required.
Storage
- Below 25ºC
- After reconstitution, use the solution immediately.
- Discard any unused solution.