title: Prediction of infusion rates: validation of a computer simulation using vecuronium.
abstract: In Phase 1 of the study a loading dose of vecuronium was given to 24 patients, followed by a sequence of infusions and boluses. The relationship between the duration of a bolus dose and the infusion rate necessary to maintain the required degree of neuromuscular block was demonstrated. In Phase 2 the data acquired from Phase 1 were used in an attempt to produce a predetermined degree of neuromuscular block. The aim was a block of neuromuscular function so that the height of the first twitch of a train-of-four was 15% of control. In the 10 patients studied the average height was 14.7% (SD 4.95%). It was concluded that it is possible to predict accurately the infusion dose of vecuronium required to achieve a predetermined degree of neuromuscular block, according to the duration of action of one or two test doses.
authors.affiliation: Auckland Hospital, New Zealand.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Harrison
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008954:Models, Biological; D009469:Neuromuscular Junction / Q000502:physiology; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D009435:Synaptic Transmission / Q000187:drug effects; D014673:Vecuronium Bromide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000494:pharmacology
chemical_list: D014673:Vecuronium Bromide