A 40-year-old patient with a known susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia requires general anaesthesia for an elective procedure. Which of the following neuromuscular blocking agents should be AVOIDED in this patient?
- A Vecuronium
- B Rocuronium
- C Succinylcholine ✓
- D Cisatracurium
Correct answer: C. Succinylcholine
Explanation
Succinylcholine is a known triggering agent for malignant hyperthermia when used together with volatile anaesthetic agents, as it causes uncontrolled calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in susceptible individuals. Non-depolarising agents such as vecuronium, rocuronium, and cisatracurium do not trigger malignant hyperthermia and are considered safe. The combination of succinylcholine with volatile agents is particularly dangerous in MH-susceptible patients.
Reference: Miller's Anaesthesia, 9th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.