| Pharmacodynamics |
Gallamine Triethiodide is a nondepolarizing neuromuscular
blocking drug (NDMRD) used as an adjunct to anesthesia to induce
skeletal muscle relaxation. The actions of gallamine triethiodide are
similar to those of tubocurarine, but this agent blocks the cardiac
vagus and may cause sinus tachycardia and, occasionally, hypertension
and increased cardiac output. Muscle groups differ in their sensitivity
to these types of relaxants with ocular muscles (controlling eyelids)
being most sensitive, followed by the muscles of the neck, jaw, limbs
and then abdomen. The diaphragm is the least sensitive muscle to NDMRDs.
Although the nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking drugs do not have
the same adverse effects as succinylcholine, their onset of action is
slower. They also have a longer duration of action, making them more
suitable for maintaining neuromuscular relaxation during major surgical
procedures. |