Drug interactions
Cortisone + Succinylcholine
Severity: Minor
Cortisone and Succinylcholine: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Systemic corticosteroids given with neuromuscular blockers have been associated with acute myopathy, particularly in critically ill patients on prolonged blockade. This is mainly described with nondepolarizing agents, and the risk with a single dose of succinylcholine is low. Corticosteroid-induced hypokalemia may also affect neuromuscular function.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cortisone and Succinylcholine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Corticosteroid-associated myopathy and potassium depletion may add to neuromuscular weakness.
What to do
Monitor neuromuscular recovery and serum potassium. Avoid prolonged neuromuscular blockade where possible in patients receiving high-dose corticosteroids.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Succinylcholine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cortisone with Succinylcholine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cortisone and Succinylcholine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Systemic corticosteroids given with neuromuscular blockers have been associated with acute myopathy, particularly in critically ill patients on prolonged blockade. This is mainly described with nondepolarizing agents, and the risk with a single dose of succinylcholine is low. Corticosteroid-induced hypokalemia may also affect neuromuscular function.
How serious is the interaction between Cortisone and Succinylcholine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor neuromuscular recovery and serum potassium. Avoid prolonged neuromuscular blockade where possible in patients receiving high-dose corticosteroids.
What other medicines interact with Succinylcholine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Succinylcholine with, for example, Amikacin, Bacitracin-neomycin-polymyxin, Capreomycin. The full list is on the Succinylcholine page.
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