Update on newer neuromuscular blocking drugs.

The development of new non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking drugs starting with the introduction of the intermediate-acting agents atracurium and vecuronium has made it possible to avoid the use of succinylcholine for elective cases. Recently 4 new drugs have become available; the short-acting mivacurium, the intermediate-acting rocuronium and the 2 long-acting drugs doxacurium and pipecuronium. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of these drugs are reviewed in this paper.