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Sugammadex

Supportive Care

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What is sugammadex?

Sugammadex (also called Bridion®) is a medicine used to reverse the effects of rocuronium and vecuronium. Rocuronium and vecuronium are neuromuscular blocking drugs that stop the muscles from working for a short period of time. These are often used to relax the skeletal muscles during surgery or other procedures that call for general anesthesia. They can also be used when a patient must have a tube put into the throat to help with breathing (intubation). Sugammadex reverses the effects of recuronium and vecuronium, allowing a patient to recover use of their muscles faster. It is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow-brown liquid given into the vein (IV) over a short period of time.

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Possible side effects

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pain at injection site
  • Low blood pressure
  • Headache
  • You will be watched closely for these possible effects:
  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, flushing, rash, swelling in your mouth or throat, fast heart rate, trouble breathing

    These are the most common side effects, but you might have others. Please tell your doctor or nurse about all side effects.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take sugammadex will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • A doctor will supervise the giving of these medicines in procedure or surgery areas. You will be closely watched for side effects after the dose is given.
  • Birth control pills and other hormone-based birth control may not work as well to prevent pregnancy after you get this medicine.
  • Be sure you use some other kind of birth control, like a condom, for 7 days after you get this medicine.
  • It is not known if sugammadex passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor about risks to a breast-fed baby
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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