Home/Medicines/Atracurium

Atracurium

Prescription

Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

1 available

Interactions

2 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle depolarization and causing skeletal muscle paralysis. Undergoes Hofmann elimination — organ-independent metabolism.

At a glance

Class

Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; stable 14 days at room temperature

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used intraoperatively for muscle relaxation and mechanical ventilation

Dose

3–8 mcg/kg

Route

Frequency

Boluses q15–25 min or CRI

🐈

Cat

Used for ophthalmic surgery, thoracotomy, and diagnostic imaging

Dose

0.12–0.2 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q20–30 min

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

—

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; stable 14 days at room temperature

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Train-of-four (TOF) monitoringSpO2 and ETCO2VentilationBlood pressure

Educational reference only

Interactions

Moderate — 2

Clindamycin

moderate

Lincosamides have intrinsic neuromuscular blocking activity, potentiating non-depolarizing neuromuscular blockers.

Management: If clindamycin given perioperatively, reduce NMB dose and monitor TOF closely. Reversal with neostigmine may be less effective.

Lincomycin

moderate

Lincosamides have intrinsic neuromuscular blocking activity (same as clindamycin), potentiating non-depolarizing NMBAs.

Management: Reduce NMB dose. Monitor TOF. Reversal may be less effective.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Tracrium

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Atracurium?

Atracurium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used in pets. Competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle depolarization and causing skeletal muscle paralysis. Undergoes Hofmann elimination — organ-independent metabolism.

›What is Atracurium used for in pets?

Atracurium is used in veterinary medicine for: Used intraoperatively for muscle relaxation and mechanical ventilation; Used for ophthalmic surgery, thoracotomy, and diagnostic imaging.

›What is the Atracurium dose for dogs?

For dogs, Atracurium is typically dosed as follows — Used intraoperatively for muscle relaxation and mechanical ventilation: 3–8 mcg/kg IV Boluses q15–25 min or CRI. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Atracurium dose for cats?

For cats, Atracurium is typically dosed as follows — Used for ophthalmic surgery, thoracotomy, and diagnostic imaging: 0.12–0.2 mg/kg IV q20–30 min. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Atracurium need a prescription?

Yes. Atracurium is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only