Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

Which other drugs can be used alongside Neostigmine to reverse neuromuscular blockade?

1. Succinylcholine and Vecuronium

2. Pyridostigmine and Edrophonium

3. Rocuronium and Cisatracurium

4. Isoflurane and Sevoflurane

The correct answer is: Pyridostigmine and Edrophonium

Neostigmine is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that is commonly used to reverse neuromuscular blockade caused by non-depolarizing muscle relaxants. It works by increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the neuromuscular junction, facilitating the competition with any remaining neuromuscular blockers. Pyridostigmine and Edrophonium are both also acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and can be used for the same purpose. Pyridostigmine is often used in chronic conditions, while Edrophonium is shorter-acting and is helpful in acute settings. Their mechanism of action is consistent with that of Neostigmine, thus allowing them to effectively reverse non-depolarizing muscle relaxants when used in conjunction with Neostigmine. In contrast, other options listed involve either neuromuscular blockers or anesthetic agents that do not serve the function of reversing neuromuscular blockade. Succinylcholine and Vecuronium are muscle relaxants themselves, whereas Rocuronium and Cisatracurium are also neuromuscular blockers. Isoflurane and Sevoflurane are inhalational anesthetics and do not participate in the reversal of neuromuscular blockade. By selecting