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Brand Names: Nimbex

Generic Name: cisatracurium (Pronunciation: sis AT ra KURE ee um)

• What is cisatracurium (Nimbex)?
• What are the possible side effects of cisatracurium (Nimbex)?
• What is the most important information I should know about cisatracurium (Nimbex)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving cisatracurium (Nimbex)?
• How is cisatracurium given (Nimbex)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Nimbex)?
• What happens if I overdose (Nimbex)?
• What should I avoid after receiving cisatracurium (Nimbex)?
• What other drugs will affect cisatracurium (Nimbex)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is cisatracurium (Nimbex)?

Cisatracurium is used to relax the muscles. It works by blocking the signals between your nerves and your muscles.

Cisatracurium is given before general anesthesia in preparing you for surgery. Cisatracurium helps keep your body still during surgery. It also relaxes your throat so a breathing tube can be more easily inserted before the surgery.

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

What are the possible side effects of cisatracurium (Nimbex)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you have any of these serious side effects:

• slow heart rate;
• noisy breathing, feeling short of breath;
• ongoing muscle weakness; or
• inability to move your muscles.

Less serious side effects may include:

• feeling light-headed;
• mild itching or skin rash; or
• warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about cisatracurium (Nimbex)?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to cisatracurium or similar medications used in anesthesia. Also tell your doctor if you are allergic to benzyl alcohol.

Before receiving cisatracurium, tell your doctor if you have a muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis, paralysis in any part of your body, an electrolyte imbalance, or a history of burn injury.

There may be other drugs that can interact with cisatracurium, especially seizure medication or certain antibiotics. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity after you recover from anesthesia.