Листенон

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Листенон

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Листенон

Property Description
Active ingredient Suxamethonium Chloride (Succinylcholine)
Form Sterile Solution for Injection
Pharmacological class Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocker Agent
Common use Adjunct to General Anesthesia
Origin Synthetic organic compound

Листенон (Lysthenon) is a prescription-only medication that functions as a highly specific skeletal muscle relaxant. Its active component is Suxamethonium Chloride, a chemical compound also widely recognized as Succinylcholine globally. This pharmaceutical is a synthetic organic compound, supplied as a sterile aqueous solution for injection, intended exclusively for parenteral administration within a controlled clinical environment. Its composition as a single-ingredient product focuses its powerful effect on the neuromuscular system.


Classification and Unique Clinical Positioning

The drug is formally classified as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker agent, an ultra short-acting pharmacological type. The active substance is included on the World Health Organization Model List of Essential Medicines, reflecting its role in healthcare systems. Its classification is clinically recognized for providing the fastest onset of profound muscle paralysis, a unique factor that differentiates it from non-depolarizing agents.

The principal function of Листенон is to serve as a critical adjunct to general anesthesia. Its clinical role centers on inducing a rapid, temporary state of flaccid skeletal muscle paralysis. Its clinical role includes enabling the precise actions necessary for successful tracheal intubation and the management of effective mechanical ventilation. The benefit ensures that the patient's muscle reflexes do not interfere with critical, time-sensitive life-support procedures.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Essential Medicines List - Suxamethonium
  2. NIH StatPearls: Succinylcholine Chloride

What side effects are possible with Листенон?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride) is defined by officially documented adverse reactions categorized by frequency and the potential for severe systemic events, as outlined in regulatory labeling (e.g., FDA and EMA SmPC).

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse effects are categorized by frequency based on clinical data. Very Common effects include increased intragastric pressure and excessive salivation. Common reactions are post-operative muscle pain and hypotension (low blood pressure). More rare but documented cardiac events include various arrhythmias, and potentially cardiac arrest linked to hyperkalemia.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Risks

Regulatory documents highlight rare but critical adverse reactions involving the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. These include Malignant Hyperthermia (MH), a severe hypermetabolic state, and Hyperkalemic Rhabdomyolysis, a condition leading to muscle breakdown and dangerously high potassium levels, which carries a specific warning for pediatric patients. Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) and Prolonged Apnea/Respiratory Depression are also listed as serious concerns.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

The official label mandates specific constraints for certain populations. The medicine is contraindicated in patients recovering from severe burns, major trauma, or extensive denervation of skeletal muscle due to a significantly magnified risk of severe hyperkalemia. Furthermore, safety statements warn against its use in patients with known or suspected skeletal muscle myopathies and note that bradycardia is more frequent and pronounced in children. Prolonged or repeated exposure is associated with the risk of a Phase II block, a condition resulting in extended neuromuscular paralysis.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose of Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride) results in a severe extension of its therapeutic effects, leading to a life-threatening medical emergency. The primary clinical manifestations of overdose are prolonged muscle relaxation and respiratory arrest (the cessation of breathing), which requires immediate and specialized intervention.

In situations where excessive amounts or multiple doses are given, the neuromuscular block may transition into a 'double block' (Phase II block), which is associated with prolonged respiratory depression and apnea.

Life-Threatening Risks and Emergency Actions

The most serious risk associated with overdose is hyperkalemia (elevated potassium in the blood), which can be severe in susceptible patients (such as those with burns, massive trauma, or certain neurological conditions). This hyperkalemia can lead directly to serious cardiac arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.

Immediate medical help is required for any suspected overdose. The management of overdose is supportive and requires constant monitoring. Crucially, the standard emergency action is the immediate provision of artificial lung ventilation (mechanical ventilation) to sustain breathing until the effect of the drug has fully worn off. The use of the drug is strictly confined to medical environments where full life support and ventilation capabilities are instantly available to manage these explicit overdose complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Листенон

What Листенон Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride) is commonly used in controlled clinical settings to provide temporary, short-term skeletal muscle relaxation, which is a required state for critical medical interventions. The primary therapeutic benefit centers on enabling procedural access that is otherwise obstructed by active muscle function. The medication serves as an adjunct to general anesthesia and is utilized due to its short duration of effect.


Therapeutic Applications and Symptomatic Domains

The medication is applicable within clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns, and is used to manage symptoms of increased muscular activity. It is commonly applied in addressing active muscular tone and reflexes that impede critical procedures. Specifically, its therapeutic role assists in tracheal intubation, facilitates mechanical ventilation, supports orthopaedic manipulations, and manages the involuntary muscular contractions seen during procedures like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

“The temporary, short-term relaxation provided by this agent assists with maintaining control during time-sensitive medical procedures.”

This generally contributes to easing the overall symptom load by supporting necessary functional stability in the respiratory system and assisting with procedural control.


Quick Fact: Assistance with Procedural Enabling Листенон is primarily used to address the physical resistance and active reflexes caused by muscle tone, which are symptoms that interfere with the safe completion of anesthesia and life-support measures.

Regulatory References

  1. Succinylcholine Chloride - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Листенон?

The use of Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride) is strictly governed by population eligibility rules defined in official regulatory documents.

Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Листенон is contraindicated in patients with a personal or familial history of malignant hyperthermia or those with skeletal muscle myopathies. Use is also prohibited in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. Crucially, the medicine must not be used in patients following the acute phase of certain severe injuries, including major burns or extensive trauma, due to the risk of life-threatening hyperkalemia.

Restricted and Conditional Use

Eligibility is restricted for pediatric patients, where use is reserved only for emergency intubation situations. Caution is required in patients with pre-existing electrolyte abnormalities or severe liver disease due to the potential for prolonged drug effects. Individuals known to have the atypical plasma cholinesterase gene are highly sensitive and require the most cautious consideration. For pregnancy and lactation, use is generally conditional, requiring a clinical assessment as regulatory data suggests potential for prolonged maternal effect.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Clearance and Metabolic Interactions

The official interaction profile for Suxamethonium Chloride is defined by substances that affect its clearance. The medicine is primarily metabolized by plasma cholinesterase, and its metabolic clearance is reduced by inhibitors of this enzyme. This pharmacokinetic interaction can result in a prolonged duration of action and delayed recovery from the neuromuscular blockade. Agents documented to reduce cholinesterase activity include certain non-penicillin antibiotics, procainamide, quinidine, trimethaphan, and magnesium salts.

Pharmacodynamic Enhancement

Other medicinal products are documented to cause a pharmacodynamic enhancement of the drug’s effects. The co-administration of volatile anesthetic agents is officially noted to increase the risk of malignant hyperthermia. Furthermore, products such as aminoglycosides or other neuromuscular blocking agents are officially listed as agents that can enhance the neuromuscular blocking action. Co-administration with corticosteroids is associated with an increased risk of acute myopathy.

Interaction-Related Restrictions

Specific restrictions are based on the risk of severe hyperkalemia. The use of Suxamethonium Chloride is contraindicated in the acute phase following major burns or multiple trauma. Additionally, great caution is required when the drug is co-administered with agents like cardiac glycosides (in digitalis toxicity) or beta-blockers, due to the documented potential for cardiac arrhythmias.

Mechanism of Action

How Листенон Works

The physiological consequence of Suxamethonium Chloride arises from a rapid and targeted depolarizing blockade of the neuromuscular junction, strictly within the peripheral nervous system. The mechanism is defined by three interconnected phases: molecular mimicry, sustained signal transmission, and subsequent channel inactivation.

Molecular Agonism at the Nicotinic Receptor

This domain covers the initial interaction where the molecule acts as an agonist at the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) on the motor endplate. By mimicking the body's natural neurotransmitter, the drug initiates a sustained, prolonged signal that is not easily terminated by local enzymes. This prolonged activation is the first step in the cascade, leading to the rapid physiological consequence of muscle paralysis.

Loss of Excitability via Sodium Channel Inactivation

The sustained signal from the nAChR causes the muscle cell membrane to maintain a state of continuous depolarization. This prolonged electrical state prevents the voltage-gated sodium channels (Na^+ channels) from recovering their ability to fire. The resulting inability of the muscle fiber to generate an electrical impulse is the direct cause of flaccid skeletal muscle paralysis.

Enzyme-Dependent Mechanism Duration

The mechanism's ultra-short duration is strictly limited by its rapid breakdown in the plasma by the enzyme plasma cholinesterase. The activity of this circulating enzyme dictates the time required to clear the drug from the bloodstream, allowing the motor endplate to repolarize and regain functional excitability.

Dosage and Administration Information

Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride) is utilized exclusively within a highly controlled clinical environment, administered only by or under the direct supervision of an experienced clinician, such as an anesthetist, who is skilled in airway management. The drug is typically administered intravenously (IV) as a rapid injection. The intramuscular (IM) route is an alternative used only when a suitable vein cannot be accessed. As a fundamental principle of use, this medication is generally administered after the induction of unconsciousness (adequate anesthesia).


Official Dosing and Administration Patterns

The drug is characterized by an ultra-short duration of action, typically lasting only 4 to 6 minutes after a single IV bolus.

Standard Administration: For initial use, the adult dose range is 0.3 mg/kg to 1.1 mg/kg IV (average 0.6 mg/kg). Maintenance of relaxation during extended procedures is achieved either through intermittent IV injections of 0.04 mg/kg to 0.07 mg/kg given every five to ten minutes, or through a continuous IV infusion.

Preparation and Constraints: For continuous infusion, the sterile solution must be diluted with compatible fluids, such as 0.9% sodium chloride, to a concentration of 1 mg/mL to 2 mg/mL. Clinical instructions specify that Suxamethonium Chloride must not be mixed with alkaline solutions, like barbiturates.

Population Considerations: Dosing requirements vary by age. Infants and small children typically require a higher dose per kilogram for initial administration, often 2 mg/kg intravenously, while adults and older adolescents require less.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Листенон

Evidence for use in Facilitating Intubation (Airway Management)

Research examining Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride) focuses on its use in achieving neuromuscular blockade for endotracheal intubation, particularly in urgent settings known as Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI). Studies were conducted using Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Systematic Reviews that explore outcomes in relation to other available neuromuscular blockers. These research efforts explored the measurement of muscle relaxation in the throat and jaw within a very short, defined time interval. Studies have reported measurements of the time to onset of muscle paralysis, noting that this occurs rapidly in the observed populations. What is still uncertain is how the agent’s effects may vary in complex, critically ill patients compared to healthier populations studied in elective settings.

Evidence for use in Short Procedures (ECT and Minor Surgery)

The use of Листенон was studied for the provision of muscle relaxation during very short, specialized procedures. This evidence base consists primarily of observational studies and older comparative clinical trials. Studies reported that the effects wear off rapidly; the research explored its use in brief clinical interventions. Research so far indicates that the primary focus is on the acute procedural window.

Study Focus: Onset Time, Paralysis Quality, and Recovery

A central objective in the research concerning Листенон is monitoring the three main measurements of neuromuscular blockade: the time taken for muscle relaxation to begin, the quality of paralysis, and the time until recovery of spontaneous respiration. Comparative studies explored how consistently the agent provided the observed intubation conditions relative to other available agents. The evidence highlights what is known about the drug’s rapid action and how quickly the effects wear off in the observed study groups.

Evidence in Special Populations

Specific research has explored the use of Листенон in patient subgroups such as pediatric patients and older adults. Furthermore, research has examined the drug’s use in individuals with certain pre-existing conditions that affect drug metabolism. Studies report how outcomes evolved in these observed populations, noting that certain physiological conditions, such as those present in pregnancy or severe liver disease, may be associated with a longer observed duration of the agent’s effect.

Key Studies & References

  1. Succinylcholine Chloride - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
  2. Summary of Product Characteristics (Suxamethonium Chloride 50mg/ml Solution for Injection) - HPRA
  3. Suxamethonium - WHO Electronic Essential Medicines List (eEML)
  4. Suxamethonium chloride - Wikipedia (Used for broad contextual understanding of indications and general profile)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Листенон (FAQ)


Q: Can the effect of Листенон be medically reversed?

The effect of Листенон is ultra-short because the body naturally breaks down the drug very quickly using an enzyme called plasma cholinesterase.

Because of this unique mechanism, official regulatory information warns against the use of specific reversal agents (like Neostigmine) under certain conditions, as this may intensify the block or prolong recovery.


Q: Does the official label mention special safety considerations for elderly patients?

Official documentation indicates that dosing for older patients is comparable to that for younger adults. However, the product information notes that older patients may be more susceptible to experiencing certain cardiac rhythm changes, particularly if they are taking other medicines for heart conditions (digitalis-like drugs).


Q: Is it normal to feel temporary muscle pain or fasciculations upon injection?

It is documented that the drug's mechanism of action involves initial, brief muscle contractions, sometimes referred to as fasciculations, right before the intended full paralysis begins.

Post-operative muscle pain is also officially listed as a common adverse reaction associated with the use of the medicine.


Q: How long after administration is Листенон completely eliminated from the body?

The paralyzing effect of the medication wears off in minutes, because it is quickly broken down by an enzyme in the plasma.

The regulatory text indicates that a small amount of the unchanged drug is known to be excreted in the urine. However, official information focuses on the short duration of the paralyzing effect rather than providing the total time for the body to eliminate all residual components.


Q: Is it safe to use other muscle relaxants immediately after Листенон's effect wears off?

Official labeling indicates that the co-administration of other neuromuscular blocking agents is known to enhance the overall muscle-blocking action.

This pharmacokinetic interaction must be considered when the agents are used sequentially, as it may require specialized clinical consideration.


Q: Is Листенон considered a long-term treatment for any condition?

Regulatory documents clearly state that Листенон is characterized as an ultra-short-acting drug indicated for acute, short-term use only.

It is officially noted as an adjunct to general anesthesia for procedures like tracheal intubation and is not intended or approved as a long-term treatment for any medical condition.


Q: Are there any reported delayed side effects that occur days after administration?

While most side effects are acute, the official safety statements point to a delayed risk of a severe rise in potassium levels (severe hyperkalemia) following major trauma or burns.

This risk period is specifically noted to increase over several days, often peaking 7 to 10 days after the initial injury.


Q: Where can patients or caregivers find the full official regulatory information for Листенон?

The complete official regulatory information, such as the full Prescribing Information or Summary of Product Characteristics, is publicly available.

This documentation can be found on governmental health websites, including the U.S. FDA’s Drugs@FDA portal, the European EMA’s public portal, and the NIH’s DailyMed.


Q: Is continuous patient monitoring required when Листенон is administered?

Official product information states that the medicine must be administered only under the supervision of experienced clinicians.

The guidance indicates the importance of appropriate techniques to monitor the patient's neuromuscular status, especially during continuous intravenous infusions.


Q: Is there any risk of interaction between Листенон and common herbal supplements?

Although the official documents do not list interactions with specific common herbal supplements, patient safety guidance consistently states the importance of a clinician being informed about all products being used.

This information should include non-prescription, herbal, or vitamin supplements.


Q: What are the official guidelines regarding the use of Листенон in patients with kidney issues?

Official guidelines address that kidney failure alone, without high potassium levels or existing nerve damage (neuropathy), is typically acceptable for a single standard dose.

However, the product information notes the risk of a significant rise in serum potassium, which may be magnified with multiple or large doses in patients with kidney issues.


Q: Is there a maximum number of times Листенон can be used within a specific period?

Official guidelines for prolonged procedures describe a recommended cumulative limit.

The total amount of the drug given over one hour by repeated injection or continuous infusion is generally stated not to exceed 500 mg.


Q: What are the known components of the drug besides the active ingredient?

The active component is Suxamethonium Chloride (Succinylcholine). The drug is supplied as a sterile solution for injection.

Regulatory documents list inactive ingredients, also known as excipients, which typically include components such as Sodium Acetate and Water for Injections.


Q: Does the official documentation discuss the use of Листенон in patients with high eye pressure?

Official documentation addresses this concern, indicating that the use of this medication causes a temporary increase in pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure, or IOP).

Because of this effect, official information notes the potential for risk in patients with conditions like penetrating eye injuries or where an increase in IOP is medically undesirable.


Q: What is the purpose of the black box warning on the official drug documentation, if one exists?

The Boxed Warning (often referred to as a black box warning) is the FDA's strongest safety measure designed to call attention to specific serious risks.

For this drug, the warning highlights the risk of cardiac arrest due to muscle breakdown (hyperkalemic rhabdomyolysis), particularly in children who may have an undiagnosed muscle disease.

How should Листенон be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Листенон (Suxamethonium Chloride)

The storage of Листенон, a sterile solution for injection, must strictly adhere to the conditions specified in regulatory labeling to maintain its stability and potency.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Must be stored under refrigeration, between 2 C and 8 C.
Protection The product must be protected from light and must not be frozen.
Container Keep the medicine in its original container and out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Official instructions require that unused or expired Листенон must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements for medicinal products. The solution must not be thrown away via wastewater or standard household waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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