Zemuron

Generic name: rocuronium [ ROE-kure-OH-nee-um ]
Drug class: Neuromuscular blocking agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 16, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Zemuron?

Zemuron is used to relax the muscles. It works by blocking the signals between your nerves and your muscles.

Zemuron is given before general anesthesia in preparing you for surgery. This medicine helps to keep your body still during surgery. It also relaxes your throat so a breathing tube can be more easily inserted before the surgery.

Zemuron may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Tell your doctor if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any type of anesthesia.

Before taking this medicine

You should not receive Zemuron if you are allergic to it. Tell your doctor if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any type of anesthesia.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• myasthenia gravis;

• cirrhosis or other liver disease;

• kidney disease;

• heart disease, circulation problems; or

• a nerve-muscle disorder such as ALS (Lou Gehrig''s disease), MS (multiple sclerosis), or muscular dystrophy.

It is not known whether Zemuron will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is Zemuron given?

Zemuron is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when Zemuron is injected.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, heart function, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving Zemuron.

It may take you longer to recover from the effects of rocuronium if you have cirrhosis or other liver disease.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Zemuron is usually given just for anesthesia, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since Zemuron is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving Zemuron?

Follow your doctor''s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Zemuron side effects

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 Zemuron. Your caregivers will watch for any serious side effects. Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

• ongoing muscle weakness; or

• loss of movement in any part of your body (especially in adults who are 65 and older).

Common side effects of Zemuron may include:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or

• high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, anxiety, confusion).

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.

What other drugs will affect Zemuron?

Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, especially:

• lithium;

• procainamide;

• quinidine;

• an antibiotic; or

• seizure medication.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Zemuron, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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