The pharmacology of rocuronium bromide (ORG 9426)

Rocuronium is a new nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking drug. Its onset of action is comparable to that of succinylcholine, with good-to-excellent intubating conditions possible 1 minute after doses two times the ED95 (600 micrograms/kg). The ED95 of rocuronium is essentially the same for children as for adults. Its duration of action is similar to vecuronium, and it is shorter for children than for adults. Rocuronium is readily reversed with conventional doses of cholinesterase-inhibiting drugs. A new agent, rocuronium possesses a very stable cardiovascular profile and a rapid onset of action. It may be useful for rapid sequence intubation without unacceptable delays in the spontaneous recovery of neuromuscular function.