Last reviewed · How we verify

Atracurium, TBW

St. Antonius Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Atracurium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent that competitively antagonizes acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction to produce muscle paralysis.

Atracurium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent that competitively antagonizes acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction to produce muscle paralysis. Used for Muscle relaxation during anesthesia for surgical procedures, Facilitation of endotracheal intubation.

At a glance

Generic nameAtracurium, TBW
SponsorSt. Antonius Hospital
Drug classNon-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent
TargetNicotinic acetylcholine receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesia
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Atracurium binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the motor end plate, preventing acetylcholine from binding and blocking neuromuscular transmission. This results in flaccid paralysis of skeletal muscles. Atracurium is unique in that it undergoes Hofmann elimination (temperature and pH-dependent degradation) and ester hydrolysis, making it suitable for patients with hepatic or renal impairment.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: