Zemuron (Intravenous)
Rocuronium is given prior to general anesthesia while preparing for surgery. Rocuronium helps to relax your muscles temporarily and keep your body still during surgery.
Rocuronium also relaxes the throat, allowing a breathing tube to be placed for those who need a mechanical ventilator (breathing machine).
Rocuronium may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Zemuron (Intravenous)?
You should not be treated with rocuronium if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction during general anesthesia.
Tell your doctor if you have or ever had:
- myasthenia gravis;
- heart disease, circulation problems, pulmonary arterial hypertension;
- cancer;
- cerebral palsy;
- an electrolyte or acid-base imbalance;
- a condition that causes a fast rise in body temperature called malignant hyperthermia;
- a nerve-muscle disorder such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), MS (multiple sclerosis), or muscular dystrophy;
- cirrhosis or other liver disease; or
- kidney disease.
It is not known if rocuronium will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Zemuron (Intravenous)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
You will remain under constant supervision during treatment with rocuronium. Your medical caregivers will watch for any serious side effects. Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:
- feeling hot;
- ongoing muscle weakness; or
- loss of movement in any part of your body.
Serious nerve and muscle problems may be more likely in older adults and people who are debilitated, have wasting syndrome or cancer.
Common side effects may include:
- feeling like you might pass out; or
- severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Zemuron (Intravenous) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known if rocuronium will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Zemuron (Intravenous)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Zemuron (Intravenous)?
Use Zemuron (Intravenous) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Rocuronium is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.
Doses are based on weight.
Tell your medical caregivers if you feel any burning or pain when rocuronium is injected.
Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, heart rate, and other vital signs will be watched closely.
You will need frequent medical tests, and your next dose may be changed based on the results.
In a medical setting you are not likely to miss a dose.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Zemuron (Intravenous)?
In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.