Suxamethonium: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Suxamethonium is a short-acting muscle relaxant used in anaesthesia. It is a prescription medicine used for rapid muscle relaxation for intubation during anaesthesia. In Pakistan it is available as injections, made by 11 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Suxamethonium works
Suxamethonium acts at the junction between nerves and muscles, first causing brief muscle twitching and then a short period of complete relaxation. It is broken down quickly by an enzyme in the blood, so its effect usually wears off within minutes.
What is Suxamethonium used for?
- Rapid muscle relaxation for intubation during anaesthesia
Suxamethonium is used by anaesthetists to produce very rapid, short-lasting muscle relaxation at the start of a general anaesthetic. This allows a breathing tube to be placed quickly and safely, particularly in emergencies or when there is a risk of stomach contents entering the lungs. It is also used to soften muscle contractions during electroconvulsive therapy. It is only ever given in hospital.
Side effects of Suxamethonium
Suxamethonium is given while the patient is anaesthetised, but afterwards some people notice:
- Muscle aches and stiffness after surgery
- Raised potassium levels
- Slow heartbeat
- Increased pressure in the eye
- Increased saliva
Rarely it can trigger malignant hyperthermia, a dangerous rise in body temperature with muscle rigidity, or cause prolonged paralysis in people with low levels of the enzyme that breaks it down. The anaesthetic team monitors for these and treats them straight away.
Precautions and warnings
- It is given only in hospital or clinic settings by trained healthcare professionals who monitor the patient throughout.
- Tell the anaesthetist if you or any family member has had problems with anaesthesia, such as a very high temperature or being slow to wake or breathe afterwards.
- Let the team know about recent severe burns, major injuries, long periods of immobility, nerve or muscle disease, or high potassium, as these increase the risk of a dangerous rise in potassium.
- Mention any eye injury or glaucoma, and list all the medicines you take.
- Tell the team if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Suxamethonium
What is the price of Suxamethonium in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Suxamethonium products currently in stock range from Rs 51 to Rs 687 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Sothonum 100mg Injection at Rs 51. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Suxamethonium are available in Pakistan?
Suxamethonium is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Suxamethonium (Goodman), Suxinium (Mediceena), Arilax (E-lite), Thonium (Epoch), Zuselax (Zafa Pharmaceutical Labortories Ltd), Suxathon (Bajwa Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd), S-choline (Akhai) and Suxam (Cirin), along with 2 more brands listed below.Do I need a prescription for Suxamethonium?
Yes. Suxamethonium is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Suxamethonium be used during pregnancy?
Tell the team if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Are all Suxamethonium brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Suxamethonium in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Suxamethonium brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 17 products containing Suxamethonium from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
