Rocuronium Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 25, 2024.

Applies to rocuronium: intravenous solution.

Serious side effects of rocuronium

Along with its needed effects, rocuronium may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking rocuronium:

Rare side effects

• cough
• difficulty with breathing
• dizziness
• fainting
• fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
• noisy breathing
• swelling at the injection site
• tightness in the chest

Incidence not known

• difficulty with swallowing
• hives, itching, or skin rash
• muscular pain, tenderness, wasting, or weakness
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• unusual tiredness or weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to rocuronium: intravenous solution.

Cardiovascular adverse events

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Arrhythmia, abnormal electrocardiogram, tachycardia
• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Hypotension, hypertension
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Circulatory collapse and shock, flushing^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Injection site edema, pruritus
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Angioneurotic edema, urticaria, rash, erythematous rash^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Nausea, vomiting^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Hypersensitivity, anaphylactic reaction, anaphylactoid reaction, anaphylactic shock, anaphylactoid shock^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Asthma (bronchospasm, wheezing, or rhonchi), hiccup
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Bronchospasm
• Postmarketing reports: Increased pulmonary vascular resistance^[Ref]

Local

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Injection site pain, injection site reaction^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Prolonged neuromuscular block
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Muscular weakness
• Frequency not reported: Residual paralysis, myopathy^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Flaccid paralysis^[Ref]

Other

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Drug ineffective, drug effect/therapeutic response decreased, drug effect/therapeutic response increased
• Frequency not reported: Malignant hyperthermia^[Ref]

Further information

Rocuronium side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer