Cisatracurium is used to relax the muscles to help keep your body still during surgery. Cisatracurium also relaxes your throat so a breathing tube can be more easily inserted before the surgery.

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

To make sure cisatracurium is safe for you, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions.

Cisatracurium is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection in preparation for surgery.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely.

You should not receive cisatracurium if you are allergic to cisatracurium or similar medications used in anesthesia.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a seizure;

• a nerve-muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis;

• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood);

• a head injury or brain tumor; or

• an allergic reaction to any anesthesia medicine.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Since cisatracurium is used during surgery, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.

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

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

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you feel numb or have loss of movement in any part of your body.

Common side effects of cisatracurium may include:

• slow heart rate;

• dizziness; or

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).

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.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• lithium;

• an antibiotic; or

• seizure medication.

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