Cisatracurium

Generic name: cisatracurium [ sis-AT-ra-KURE-ee-um ]
Brand name: Nimbex
Dosage form: intravenous solution (10 mg/mL; 2 mg/mL; 20 mg/10 mL)
Drug class: Neuromuscular blocking agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 26, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is cisatracurium?

Cisatracurium is used to relax the muscles to help keep your body still during surgery. Cisatracurium also relaxes your throat so a breathing tube can be more easily inserted before the surgery.

Cisatracurium may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Cisatracurium side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you feel numb or have loss of movement in any part of your body.

Common side effects of cisatracurium may include:

• slow heart rate;

• dizziness; or

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

To make sure cisatracurium is safe for you, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions.

Related/similar drugs

lorazepam, diazepam, lidocaine, Ativan, fentanyl, Valium, ketamine

Before taking this medicine

You should not receive cisatracurium if you are allergic to cisatracurium or similar medications used in anesthesia.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a seizure;

• a nerve-muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis;

• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood);

• a head injury or brain tumor; or

• an allergic reaction to any anesthesia medicine.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is cisatracurium given?

Cisatracurium is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection in preparation for surgery.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cisatracurium is used during surgery, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since cisatracurium is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving cisatracurium?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect cisatracurium?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• lithium;

• an antibiotic; or

• seizure medication.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect cisatracurium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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