Evaluation of glycopyrrolate and atropine as adjuncts to reversal of non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents in a "true-to-life" situation.

Glycopyrrolate, a quaternary ammonium anticholinergic compound, and atropine were evaluated in combination with neostigmine for antagonism of non-depolarizing neuromuscular block. A total of 641 patients were investigated in a "true-to-life" situation. The patients receiving glycopyrrolate with neostigmine had smaller changes in heart rate than those who received atropine. This was particularly apparent in patients with cardiovascular disease.