Gallamine
Gallamine is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent historically used as an adjunct to general anesthesia during surgical procedures. It works by competitively blocking acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, causing temporary muscle relaxation.
Gallamine is a muscle relaxant used during surgery that blocks nerve signals to muscles.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M03AC02
- RxNorm
- 4638
- Generic
- Gallamine
- Class
- atc-m03
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- 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 to produce skeletal muscle relaxation during surgical procedures, particularly abdominal surgeries and procedures requiring endotracheal intubation. Also used as an adjunct in electroconvulsive therapy and mechanical ventilation.
Acts as a competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. By blocking acetylcholine binding, it prevents depolarization of the motor end plate, resulting in muscle paralysis. Has additional vagolytic properties that may cause increased heart rate.
Should only be administered by trained personnel familiar with neuromuscular blocking agents. Requires adequate ventilation and airway support. Contraindicated in patients with myasthenia gravis. Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function as it is primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Has been largely replaced by newer neuromuscular blocking agents with more favorable safety profiles.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy