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Cisatracurium Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 24, 2025.

Applies to cisatracurium: intravenous solution.

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may increase your or your child's risk for muscle weakness, leading to paralysis, or seizures. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.

This medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, hoarseness, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after receiving this medicine.

This medicine may cause a condition called malignant hyperthermia (dangerous increase in body temperature). Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have a fast heartbeat, high fever, or rigid muscles.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of cisatracurium

Along with its needed effects, cisatracurium may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking cisatracurium:

Rare side effects

  • blurred vision
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • confusion
  • cough
  • difficulty breathing
  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
  • lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
  • noisy breathing
  • slow or irregular heartbeat
  • sweating
  • tightness in the chest
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

  • difficulty swallowing
  • drowsiness
  • fast heartbeat
  • hives, itching, skin rash
  • muscular pain, tenderness, wasting, or weakness
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

Other side effects of cisatracurium

Some side effects of cisatracurium may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Rare side effects

  • feeling of warmth
  • redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

See also:

Further information

Cisatracurium side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.