Which drug is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker commonly used for rapid sequence intubation?

Which drug is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker commonly used for rapid sequence intubation?

• A. Pancuronium
• B. Succinylcholine
• C. Vecuronium
• D. Atracurium

Answer: (B)

Succinylcholine is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker used for rapid sequence intubation. It works by briefly activating nicotinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction, causing an initial fasciculation and then sustained depolarization that prevents further contractions, leading to rapid, short-lived paralysis. Its onset is very fast (about 30–60 seconds) and its duration is short (roughly 5–10 minutes), which is ideal for RSI because it allows quick airway control with minimal time in apnea. It is quickly broken down by plasma pseudocholinesterase, so recovery is rapid. In pediatric patients this quick onset and offset are particularly advantageous, though clinicians watch for issues like bradycardia, hyperkalemia in certain conditions, and malignant hyperthermia risk. The other agents listed are nondepolarizing blockers; they paralyze without an initial depolarization and have slower onset and longer duration, making them less suitable for RSI in most cases.

Succinylcholine is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker used for rapid sequence intubation. It works by briefly activating nicotinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction, causing an initial fasciculation and then sustained depolarization that prevents further contractions, leading to rapid, short-lived paralysis. Its onset is very fast (about 30–60 seconds) and its duration is short (roughly 5–10 minutes), which is ideal for RSI because it allows quick airway control with minimal time in apnea. It is quickly broken down by plasma pseudocholinesterase, so recovery is rapid. In pediatric patients this quick onset and offset are particularly advantageous, though clinicians watch for issues like bradycardia, hyperkalemia in certain conditions, and malignant hyperthermia risk. The other agents listed are nondepolarizing blockers; they paralyze without an initial depolarization and have slower onset and longer duration, making them less suitable for RSI in most cases.