Skip to main content
CSTSetup
Dictionary · Drug

neostigmine

A drug that blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, so nerve signals to muscles get stronger.

nee-oh-STIG-meen noun

What it means

A cholinesterase inhibitor. In surgery it is given IV at the end of a case to reverse non-depolarizing muscle relaxants such as rocuronium. It is also used for myasthenia gravis. Because it increases acetylcholine everywhere, it can slow the heart and increase saliva, so it is given together with an anticholinergic such as glycopyrrolategly-koh-PEER-oh-lateAn anticholinergic drug that dries up saliva and airway secretions and keeps the heart rate from falling too low.Full entry .

For the nurse

After reversal, watch breathing, muscle strength (head lift, hand grip) and heart rate in the recovery area. Have atropine at hand for severe bradycardia.

At a glance

Drug classcholinesterase inhibitor (reversal agent)
Brand namesBloxiverz
Also writtenBloxiverz

Related terms

bradycardia

A heart rate slower than normal; in an adult, fewer than 60 beats per minute.

anesthesia

Loss of feeling or sensation, often brought on by drugs so that surgery or a procedure can be done without pain.

glycopyrrolate

An anticholinergic drug that dries up saliva and airway secretions and keeps the heart rate from falling too low.

Filed under

Look up another word