Atrium

Atrium Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Atrium is a brand name. Its generic name is Atracurium besylate.

Atracurium Besylate Introduction

Atrium is a medication used to facilitate endotracheal intubation and provide skeletal muscle relaxation for surgical procedures. It is a type of non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking drug (NMBD), belonging to the class of aminosteroid NMBDs.

Uses

Atrium is primarily used as an adjunct to general anaesthesia in order to facilitate endotracheal intubation and provide skeletal muscle relaxation for surgery or mechanical ventilation. It may also be used as a short-term adjunct during neurosurgical and urological operations, and may be used to treat laryngospasm.

Mechanism of Action

Atrium works by blocking the neuromuscular junction in a non-depolarizing manner, meaning that it blocks the release of acetylcholine at the presynaptic nerve terminal. This prevents muscle contraction and leads to relaxation of the skeletal muscle.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The onset of action of Atrium is 10–15 minutes, with peak action at 25 minutes. Duration of action is usually 30–45 minutes.

Absorption

Atrium is not orally absorbed and is only effective when administered intravenously.

Route of Elimination

Atrium is primarily eliminated via the liver, where it is metabolized into inactive metabolites. It is also eliminated unchanged in the urine and feces.

Dosage

The recommended initial dose of Atrium for adult patients is 0.4–0.5 mg/kg, administered intravenously over 10–15 seconds. It may be repeated every 5–10 minutes as necessary. The safety of doses greater than 0.5 mg/kg has not been established.

Administration

A solution of Atrium for injection must be prepared in 10 to 20 mL of sterile water for injection prior to administration. The solution must be administered intravenously over 10-15 seconds and should not be given intramuscularly.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Atrium use include hypotension, nausea, vomiting, bronchospasm, bradycardia, and cardiac arrhythmia.

Toxicity

The amount of Atrium that can lead to toxicity is unknown. Patients who are given too much of this medication may experience serious side effects or death.

Precautions

Atrium should not be administered to patients with conditions such as myasthenia gravis, severe hypovolemia, long QT interval, or organophosphate poisoning. It should also be avoided in patients at risk of desflurane-induced seizures.

Interactions

Atrium may interact with other medications, such as anticholinergic drugs, antibiotics, and calcium channel blockers. It may also interact with medications for heart rhythm disturbances, such as amiodarone or sotalol.

Disease Interactions

Atrium is not recommended for use in patients with severe hypovolemia, long QT intervals, myasthenia gravis, or organophosphate poisoning. It should also be avoided in patients with conditions that can cause desflurane-induced seizures.

Drug Interactions

Atrium may interact with other medications, including anticholinergic drugs, antibiotics, calcium channel blockers, medications for heart rhythm disturbances, and opioids. It is important to be aware of all relevant drug interactions when taking Atrium.

Food Interactions

No food interactions have been reported with Atrium.

Pregnancy Use

The use of Atrium during pregnancy is not recommended. Animal studies have revealed evidence of developmental toxicity, particularly with doses greater than 0.5 mg/kg.

Lactation Use

It is not known whether Atrium is excreted in human milk; therefore, use during lactation is not advised.

Acute Overdose

Acute overdose of Atrium may lead to serious side effects or even death. Treatment may include continuous ECG monitoring and supportive care. In severe cases, anticholinesterase and atropine may be indicated.

Contraindications

Atrium is contraindicated in patients with prior hypersensitivity to Atrium and its components, myasthenia gravis, severe hypovolemia, long QT interval, and organophosphate poisoning.

Use Direction

Atrium should only be used as an adjunct to general anaesthesia in order to facilitate endotracheal intubation and provide skeletal muscle relaxation for surgery or mechanical ventilation. It should not be used intramuscularly or given in overdose.

Storage Conditions

Atrium must be stored in a tightly closed container at a temperature of 20–25°C (68–77°F). Protect from light and water.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Atrium is 0.21 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of Atrium is 10–25 minutes.

Clearance

The clearance of Atrium is 186–278 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Atrium

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Atrium

What is Atracurium Besylate?

Atracurium Besylate is a neuromuscular blocking agent commonly used during general anesthesia or to facilitate endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. It is a semisynthetic, didehydrobenzylisoquinoline derived from natural sources.

What is Atracurium Besylate used for?

Atracurium Besylate is used during general anesthesia to provide relaxation of skeletal muscle so that surgery can be performed. It may also be used to facilitate endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation.

What forms does Atracurium Besylate come in?

Atracurium Besylate comes in a powdered form, which must be diluted before use. It is available as a single agent in 4 mL vials (15mg/4mL) or a 10 mL vial (50mg/10mL).

How does Atracurium Besylate work?

Atracurium Besylate works by blocking the release of acetylcholine from motor nerve endings at the neuromuscular junction, which causes muscle paralysis. It does this by binding to the acetylcholine receptors in the muscle cells.

What is the onset and duration of action of Atracurium Besylate?

The onset of action is relatively rapid, usually within 1-3 minutes, and the neuromuscular blockade usually lasts for 30-45 minutes. Typically, full neuromuscular blockade is achieved within 5 minutes of administration.

How is Atracurium Besylate administered?

Atracurium Besylate is usually administered intravenously as an injection or infusion. It must be diluted before use and may be given as a bolus injection, an infusion, or mixed with other injectable agents.

What are the common side effects of Atracurium Besylate?

The most common side effects are respiratory depression, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and dry mouth. Other less common side effects include fever, chills, rash, and pruritus.

Is Atracurium Besylate safe to use in children?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate is safe to use in children and is commonly used for procedures requiring a short period of relaxation. It should be used with caution in patients with decreased creatinine clearance or severe respiratory depression.

What precautions should be taken when administering Atracurium Besylate?

Atracurium Besylate should be used with caution in patients with decreased creatinine clearance or severe respiratory depression. Hypotension should be monitored closely and managed appropriately. Close monitoring is also advised in patients receiving concomitant use of drugs that prolong the QT interval, such as certain antihypertensives.

How should Atracurium Besylate be stored?

Atracurium Besylate should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. It should be stored in its original container, away from other medications. It should not be used if beyond its expiration date.

Is there any drug interaction with Atracurium Besylate?

Yes, certain medications may interact with Atracurium Besylate, such as drugs that prolong the QT interval, such as certain antihypertensives. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications that you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines, before using Atracurium Besylate.

What is the difference between Atracurium Besylate and vecuronium?

Atracurium Besylate and vecuronium are both neuromuscular blocking agents used to provide muscle relaxation during surgery. Atracurium has a shorter duration of action than vecuronium and is less likely to cause a histamine response.

Who should not use Atracurium Besylate?

Atracurium Besylate should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. It should also not be used in patients with myasthenia gravis.

Are there any laboratory tests that should be monitored while using Atracurium Besylate?

Yes, serum creatinine levels should be monitored while receiving Atracurium Besylate. Electrolyte levels, especially potassium, should also be monitored.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in pregnant or breastfeeding patients?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding patients as it does not cross the placenta or enter the breast milk. However, as with any medication, caution should be taken and it is best to consult with a doctor before using in pregnant or breastfeeding patients.

What should be done if an overdose of Atracurium Besylate is given?

If an overdose of Atracurium Besylate is given, supportive care should be provided, including maintaining adequate oxygenation and ventilation. The anticholinesterase, atropine sulfate, may be used to reverse the effects of overdose.

Who should not receive Atracurium Besylate?

Atracurium Besylate should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. It should also not be used in patients with myasthenia gravis. In addition, it should not be used in patients with low serum creatinine levels or severe respiratory depression.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in patients with renal impairment?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in patients with renal impairment, however caution should be taken as the risk of adverse reactions may be increased. The dose should be reduced in patients with decreased creatinine clearance and close monitoring of electrolyte levels is recommended.

What type of monitoring is necessary when Atracurium Besylate is administered?

Close monitoring is necessary when Atracurium Besylate is administered, including monitoring of respiratory status, ECG, muscle strength, and laboratory tests. It is also important to monitor for any signs of an allergic reaction such as rash or hives.

Can Atracurium Besylate cause allergic reactions?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can cause allergic reactions such as rash, hives, or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms occur, discontinue the use of the drug and seek medical attention immediately.

What is the usual dose of Atracurium Besylate?

The recommended dose of Atracurium Besylate is 0.6-0.9 mg/kg body weight for adult patients. The dose may be adjusted depending on the patient’s age, weight, and response to the drug.

Is Atracurium Besylate used for chronic or acute conditions?

Atracurium Besylate is used for short-term acute conditions such as general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation and is not typically used for chronic conditions.

Can Atracurium Besylate be given in patients with electrolyte imbalances?

Atracurium Besylate can be given in patients with electrolyte imbalances, however caution should be taken and the dose should be reduced in patients with low serum creatinine levels or severe respiratory depression. Close monitoring of electrolyte levels is also recommended.

Can Atracurium Besylate be given concurrently with other medications?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be given concurrently with other medications, however it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications that you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines, before using Atracurium Besylate.

What are the advantages of using Atracurium Besylate compared to other neuromuscular blocking agents?

Atracurium Besylate has a rapid onset of action, usually within 1-3 minutes, and its neuromuscular blockade usually lasts for 30-45 minutes. It is also less likely to produce a histamine response than other neuromuscular blocking agents.

What is the mechanism of action of Atracurium Besylate?

Atracurium Besylate works by blocking the release of acetylcholine from motor nerve endings at the neuromuscular junction, which causes muscle paralysis. It does this by binding to the acetylcholine receptors in the muscle cells.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used for long-term paralysis?

No, Atracurium Besylate is not recommended for use in long-term paralysis because its duration of action is relatively short. It is designed for short-term paralysis and should not be used for more than 1-2 hours.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in patients with hepatic impairment?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in patients with hepatic impairment, however caution should be taken and the dose should be reduced if necessary. Close monitoring is recommended.

Is Atracurium Besylate safe for use in neonates?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate is safe for use in neonates as long as the dose is adjusted according to the age, weight and medical condition of the patient.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in patients with cardiovascular disease?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in patients with cardiovascular disease, however caution should be taken as the risk of an adverse reaction may be increased. Close monitoring is recommended and the dose should be reduced if necessary.

What is the maximum dosage of Atracurium Besylate recommended?

The maximum dosage of Atracurium Besylate is 0.9 mg/kg body weight for adult patients. The dose should be adjusted according to the age, weight, and medical condition of the patient.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in patients with diabetes?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in patients with diabetes. However, caution should be taken and the dose should be adjusted according to the age, weight, and medical condition of the patient.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in patients with a history of allergic reactions?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in patients with a history of allergic reactions, however caution should be taken and the dose should be adjusted according to the age, weight, and medical condition of the patient. Close monitoring is recommended.

Are there any foods or drugs that should be avoided when taking Atracurium Besylate?

No, there are no foods or drugs that should be avoided when taking Atracurium Besylate. However, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications that you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines, before using Atracurium Besylate.

What should be done if the patient experiences any adverse reactions after taking Atracurium Besylate?

If the patient experiences any adverse reactions after taking Atracurium Besylate, such as hypotension, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, the drug should be discontinued and the patient should seek medical attention immediately.

What other neuromuscular blocking agents can be used instead of Atracurium Besylate?

Other neuromuscular blocking agents that can be used instead of Atracurium Besylate include rocuronium, vecuronium, and pancuronium.

Can Atracurium Besylate be used in combination with other medications?

Yes, Atracurium Besylate can be used in combination with other medications, however it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all