Atracurium Besylate
Atracurium Besylate is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used to induce skeletal muscle relaxation during surgical procedures, facilitate endotracheal intubation, and aid mechanical ventilation. It works by competitively blocking nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing nerve signal transmission to muscles. This medication is administered intravenously by healthcare professionals in controlled settings such as operating rooms and intensive care units.
Atracurium Besylate is a neuromuscular blocking agent used to relax muscles during surgery and mechanical ventilation.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1219
- Generic
- Atracurium Besylate
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used for skeletal muscle relaxation during surgical procedures, endotracheal intubation facilitation, and prolonged mechanical ventilation in intensive care settings. Particularly useful when patients require controlled ventilation or surgical access to specific body regions.
Acts as a competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on the motor end plate, blocking acetylcholine binding and preventing depolarization. This non-depolarizing mechanism differs from succinylcholine, resulting in intermediate duration of action that is not dependent on hepatic or renal function for termination.
Must be administered by trained healthcare providers with airway management expertise. Can cause histamine release leading to hypotension and bronchospasm. Requires continuous monitoring of neuromuscular function. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity. Onset is 2-4 minutes with duration of 30-45 minutes.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy