Sugammadex

What is sugammadex?

Sugammadex (also called Bridion^®) is a medicine used to reverse the effects of rocuronium and vecuronium. Rocuronium and vecuronium are neuromuscular blocking drugs that stop the muscles from working for a short period of time. These are often used to relax the skeletal muscles during surgery or other procedures that call for general anesthesia. They can also be used when a patient must have a tube put into the throat to help with breathing (intubation). Sugammadex reverses the effects of recuronium and vecuronium, allowing a patient to recover use of their muscles faster. It is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow-brown liquid given into the vein (IV) over a short period of time.

Possible side effects of sugammadex

Most common

• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain at injection site
• Low blood pressure
• Headache

You will be watched closely for these possible effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, flushing, rash, swelling in your mouth or throat, fast heart rate, trouble breathing

These are the most common side effects, but you might have others. Please tell your doctor or nurse about all side effects.

In case of a severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse, or pharmacist at 901-595-3300. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), and press 0 once the call is connected.

Special instructions for sugammadex

• A doctor will supervise the giving of these medicines in procedure or surgery areas. You will be closely watched for side effects after the dose is given.
• Birth control pills and other hormone-based birth control may not work as well to prevent pregnancy after you get this medicine.
• Be sure you use some other kind of birth control, like a condom, for 7 days after you get this medicine.
• It is not known if sugammadex passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor about risks to a breast-fed baby.