Neuromuscular blocking agent

Neuromuscular Blocking Agent

A Neuromuscular Blocking Agent (pronunciation: neuro-muscular blocking agent) is a type of drug that is used to cause temporary paralysis by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscles.

Etymology

The term "Neuromuscular Blocking Agent" is derived from the Greek words "neuron" (nerve), "muscle", and "block", referring to the drug's ability to block nerve impulses to the muscles.

Types of Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

There are two main types of Neuromuscular Blocking Agents: non-depolarizing and depolarizing.

• Non-depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agents are drugs that block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits signals in the nervous system. Examples of non-depolarizing agents include rocuronium and vecuronium.

• Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agents are drugs that mimic the action of acetylcholine, causing the muscles to become depolarized and unable to contract. The most common depolarizing agent is succinylcholine.

Uses

Neuromuscular Blocking Agents are commonly used in anesthesia to relax the muscles during surgery. They are also used in intensive care units to facilitate mechanical ventilation or to manage patients with severe spastic or rigid conditions.

Related Terms

• Anesthesia
• Paralysis
• Acetylcholine
• Rocuronium
• Vecuronium
• Succinylcholine

See Also

• Muscle Relaxant
• Anesthetic

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Neuromuscular blocking agent
• Wikipedia's article - Neuromuscular blocking agent

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