chapter 24 glossary

The chief neurotransmitter released into the synapse from the nerve's presynaptic membrane during neurotransmission.

A chemical that breaks down acetylcholine.

A parasympathetic blocker that decreases vagal response.

Medicines that help relieve nervousness, tension, and other symptoms by slowing the central nervous system.

A small dose of a non-depolarizing paralytic which, when administered before administering a certain drug, prevents the fasciculations associated with that drug.

One of the two major classes of neuromuscular blockers; binds to the acetylcholine receptor and causes the muscle to depolarize or contract.

A dissociative anesthetic that provides excellent amnesia, analgesia, and anesthesia during procedures and intubation. Most notably, however, it has minimal respiratory depression even at very high doses.

A common local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic drug.

A skeletal muscle disease that leads to a life-threatening reaction to succinylcholine and some other inhaled anesthetics.

The use of adjunctive medications during intubations, either to provide sedation or cause muscular paralysis to protect patients and improve their quality of care.

A class of drugs known for their ability to induce a profound state of sedation.

An acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that can be used to reverse the effects of the competitive (non-depolarizing) NMBAs.

Medications that block transmission of nerve impulses to skeletal muscle at the neuromuscular junction.

One of the two major classes of neuromuscular blockers; competes with acetylcholine for the receptor but does not cause the receptor to fire.

Medications used to decrease a patient's level of consciousness, lessen irritability, decrease excitability, or cause muscular relaxation.

A depolarizing neuromuscular blocker composed of two acetylcholine molecules hooked back to back.

A non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent commonly used by Paramedics in the prehospital setting.