Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

Zemuron (ROCURONIUM)

Zemuron works by blocking the action of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle contraction.

Zemuron (Rocuronium) is a nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocker developed by Organon USA Inc. and currently owned by Fresenius Kabi USA. It targets the acetylcholine receptor to induce muscle relaxation, and is approved for general anesthesia, muscle relaxation, and endotracheal intubation. Zemuron is a small molecule, off-patent medication with 21 generic manufacturers. It has a half-life of 1.6 hours and is used to facilitate intubation and provide muscle relaxation during surgery.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Rocuronium bromide is nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent with rapid to intermediate onset depending on dose and intermediate duration. It acts by competing for cholinergic receptors at the motor end-plate. This action is antagonized by acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, such as neostigmine and edrophonium.

Approved indications

• General anesthesia
• Muscle relaxation, function
• Skeletal Muscle Relaxation for Endotracheal Intubation

Common side effects

• Transient hypotension
• Hypertension
• Tachycardia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Asthma
• Bronchospasm
• Wheezing
• Rhonchi
• Hiccup
• Rash
• Injection site edema

Drug interactions

• streptomycin
• tobramycin

Key clinical trials

• The Effect of Interscalene Block on Wound Healing and Immunity in Open Shoulder Surgeries (NA)
• Impact of Sugammadex Versus Neostigmine on Early Postoperative Pulmonary Function (NA)
• The Relationship Between Opioid-Free Anesthesia and Postoperative Agitation-Delirium and Quality of Recovery in Pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat Cases Monitored With Perioperative Bispectral Index
• Association of Sarcopenia With Rocuronium Use in Liver Transplant Recipients (NA)
• Deep Versus Moderate Neuromuscular Blocking (NA)
• Awareness Neuraxial Versus General Anesthesia in Frail Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic or Robotic Abdominopelvic Surgery. (NA)
• Effect of Neuromuscular Block Depth on Driving Pressure and Postoperative Respiratory Events in Abdominal Surgeries (NA)
• A Dose-response Study to Determine the Right Dosage of Sugammadex as a Reversal Agent of Rocuronium in Infants Between 1 and 24 Months Old (PHASE4)

Primary sources

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