Rocuronium

Generic name: rocuronium [ ROE-kure-OH-nee-um ]
Brand name: Zemuron
Dosage form: intravenous solution (10 mg/mL)
Drug class: Neuromuscular blocking agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 2, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is rocuronium?

Rocuronium is given prior to general anesthesia while preparing for surgery. Rocuronium helps to relax your muscles temporarily and keep your body still during surgery.

Rocuronium also relaxes the throat, allowing a breathing tube to be placed for those who need a mechanical ventilator (breathing machine).

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

Rocuronium 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.

You will remain under constant supervision during treatment with rocuronium. Your medical caregivers will watch for any serious side effects. Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

• feeling hot;

• ongoing muscle weakness; or

• loss of movement in any part of your body.

Serious nerve and muscle problems may be more likely in older adults and people who are debilitated, have wasting syndrome or cancer.

Common side effects of rocuronium may include:

• feeling like you might pass out; or

• severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears.

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

Tell your doctor if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any type of anesthesia.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with rocuronium if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction during general anesthesia.

Tell your doctor if you have or ever had:

• myasthenia gravis;

• heart disease, circulation problems, pulmonary arterial hypertension;

• cancer;

• cerebral palsy;

• an electrolyte or acid-base imbalance;

• a condition that causes a fast rise in body temperature called malignant hyperthermia;

• a nerve-muscle disorder such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), MS (multiple sclerosis), or muscular dystrophy;

• cirrhosis or other liver disease; or

• kidney disease.

It is not known if rocuronium will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

How is rocuronium given?

Rocuronium is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.

Doses are based on weight.

Tell your medical caregivers if you feel any burning or pain when rocuronium is injected.

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

You will need frequent medical tests, and your next dose may be changed based on the results.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In a medical setting you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid after receiving rocuronium?

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

What other drugs will affect rocuronium?

Rocuronium can cause a serious heart problem. Your risk may be higher if you also use certain other medicines for infections, general anesthesia, a weak immune system, seizures, asthma, heart problems, high blood pressure, depression, mental illness, cancer, malaria, or HIV.

Other drugs may affect rocuronium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

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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