Comparison of the efficacy of atracurium pretreatment versus magnesium sulphate for prevention of suxamethonium-induced fasciculation and post-operative myalgia

Background: Suxamethonium remains the best option for rapid sequence induction, it is only depolarizing muscle relaxant in clinical use. However, fasciculation and myalgia are frequent adverse effects of drug. Myalgia can last several days with associated discomfort. Non-depolarizing magnesium sulphate have been tried as pretreatments to attenuate varying results.Methods: A double blind, randomized study 100 adult surgical patients ASA I or II Class were recruited receive either intravenous atracurium (0.05mg/kg) (Group A) (30mg/kg)(Group B). The occurrence, severity duration well occurrence post-operative also recorded.Results: Muscle occurred 39 (78%) Group 27(54%) B (p= 0.001). was mild moderate while addition recorded some cases severe episodes fasciculation. Mean waslonger (28.48 ± 1.07sec) than group (19.44± 1.93seconds) Post-operative not experienced at 6hrs 48hrs, 2 (1 each Group) had 12hrs. At 24hrs, postoperative present 13(26%) 5(10%) B, (p=0.043). both 12hrs 24hrs mild.Conclusion: Magnesium demonstrated better efficacy reducing