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Succinylcholine

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

Mechanism of action

Depolarizing NMBA that mimics acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, causing initial muscle fasciculations followed by prolonged depolarization-induced paralysis. Rapidly hydrolyzed by plasma cholinesterase (short duration 5–10 min).

At a glance

Class
Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; some formulations stable at room temperature; check package insert

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Short-acting for rapid sequence intubation
Dose
0.3 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Single dose
🐈

Cat

Used for rapid sequence intubation in cats
Dose
0.3–0.5 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Single dose

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; some formulations stable at room temperature; check package insert

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Airway and ventilation (requires mechanical ventilation)ECG and heart rateSpO2 continuouslyReturn of spontaneous breathing

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Neostigmine
contraindicated
Neostigmine inhibits acetylcholinesterase which normally degrades succinylcholine. Combined: massively prolonged depolarizing blockade (hours of paralysis).
Management: NEVER give neostigmine to reverse succinylcholine (depolarizing agent). Neostigmine only reverses NON-depolarizing agents (atracurium, vecuronium, rocuronium).

Major — 1

Digoxin
major
Succinylcholine causes transient hyperkalemia (K+ release from muscle depolarization). In digitalized patients, hyperkalemia potentiates digoxin toxicity, risking fatal arrhythmias.
Management: Avoid succinylcholine in digitalized patients. Use non-depolarizing NMBA (rocuronium) instead.

Brands

Other markets

Anectine
Quelicin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Succinylcholine?
Succinylcholine is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used in pets. Depolarizing NMBA that mimics acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, causing initial muscle fasciculations followed by prolonged depolarization-induced paralysis. Rapidly hydrolyzed by plasma cholinesterase (short duration 5–10 min).
›What is Succinylcholine used for in pets?
Succinylcholine is used in veterinary medicine for: Short-acting for rapid sequence intubation; Used for rapid sequence intubation in cats.
›What is the Succinylcholine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Succinylcholine is typically dosed as follows — Short-acting for rapid sequence intubation: 0.3 mg/kg IV Single dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Succinylcholine dose for cats?
For cats, Succinylcholine is typically dosed as follows — Used for rapid sequence intubation in cats: 0.3–0.5 mg/kg IV Single dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Succinylcholine need a prescription?
Yes. Succinylcholine 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 →