Succinylcholine is a muscle relaxant that relaxes almost all the muscles in the body, including the respiratory muscles. It is used during surgery or other medical interventions requiring a fast-acting relaxant and in situations where a relaxant that is effective for a short period is desirable.
Succinylcholine and the benefit of DNA analysis
The rate at which succinylcholine is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of succinylcholine can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes.
Preventive DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.
Succinylcholine and the enzyme BChE
Succinylcholine is processed within the body primarily by the enzyme BChE (butyrylcholinesterase). The activity of this enzyme can vary considerably depending on your genetic predisposition, which means the efficacy of succinylcholine can also differ from person to person.
Information about your genetic predisposition may therefore provide grounds for extra vigilance in relation to a treatment with succinylcholine.
Read more about BChE enzyme »
Also known as
Suxamethonium chloride, Succinocholine, Succinoylcholine, Succinylbischoline, Succinyldicholine, Suxamethonium, Anectine, Quelicin, Succinylcholine Chloride, Scoline, Sucostrin