[A pharmacodynamic study of pipecuronium bromide (Arduan) in newborn infants, infants and children]

The purpose of the study was to measure the neuromuscular effects of pipecuronium bromide (Arduan) and to determine its dosage in paediatric anaesthesiology by recording dose-effect curves in children, infants and newborn babies during diazepam, ketamine, fentanyl, nitrous oxide anaesthesia. These investigations were performed by electromechanographic method. In connection with the pharmacodynamic evaluation, literature on the pipecuronium bromide and on the administration of the muscle relaxants in paediatric anaesthesiology is summarized. From the investigations it can be ascertained that infants are more sensitive and neonates prove to be even more sensitive to pipecuronium than children; therefore it is advisable to administer 80-90 micrograms.kg-1 of Arduan for children, 50-60 micrograms.kg-1 for infants and 40-50 micrograms.kg-1 for newborn babies to ensure appropriate relaxation for surgery.