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Rocuronium

Prescription
Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Aminosteroid non-depolarizing NMBA that competitively blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Fastest onset of non-depolarizing agents (1–2 min). Can be fully reversed by sugammadex (gamma-cyclodextrin — encapsulation reversal).

At a glance

Class
Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; stable 60 days at room temperature

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Fastest onset non-depolarizing NMBA — alternative to succinylcholine for rapid s
Dose
0.3–0.6 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Boluses q15–30 min or CRI
🐈

Cat

Same indications as dogs
Dose
0.3–0.6 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Single dose or maintenance boluses

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; stable 60 days at room temperature

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Train-of-four (TOF) neuromuscular monitoringSpO2 and ETCO2Ventilation (mandatory)Adequate reversal before extubation (TOF ratio >0.9)

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Gentamicin (Systemic)
moderate
Aminoglycosides potentiate non-depolarizing neuromuscular blockade by inhibiting presynaptic ACh release and postsynaptic receptor sensitivity.
Management: If aminoglycoside given perioperatively, reduce NMBA dose and monitor TOF closely. Reversal with neostigmine may be less effective.

Brands

Other markets

Zemuron

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Rocuronium?
Rocuronium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used in pets. Aminosteroid non-depolarizing NMBA that competitively blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Fastest onset of non-depolarizing agents (1–2 min). Can be fully reversed by sugammadex (gamma-cyclodextrin — encapsulation reversal).
›What is Rocuronium used for in pets?
Rocuronium is used in veterinary medicine for: Fastest onset non-depolarizing NMBA — alternative to succinylcholine for rapid s; Same indications as dogs.
›What is the Rocuronium dose for dogs?
For dogs, Rocuronium is typically dosed as follows — Fastest onset non-depolarizing NMBA — alternative to succinylcholine for rapid s: 0.3–0.6 mg/kg IV Boluses q15–30 min or CRI. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Rocuronium dose for cats?
For cats, Rocuronium is typically dosed as follows — Same indications as dogs: 0.3–0.6 mg/kg IV Single dose or maintenance boluses. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Rocuronium need a prescription?
Yes. Rocuronium is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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 →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent).

Atracurium
Rx
Competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle depolarization and causing skeletal muscle paralysis. Undergoes Hofmann elimination — organ-independent metabolism.
dogcat
Vecuronium
Rx
Aminosteroid non-depolarizing NMBA that competitively blocks nicotinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Intermediate duration (20–40 min). No histamine release (unlike atracurium). Primarily hepatic elimination.
dogcat