On this page

Cisatracurium Besylate

Prescription ANDA TE AP Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Cisatracurium Besylate
Generic name
Cisatracurium Besylate
Dosage form
Injection
Route
Intravenous
Marketing category
ANDA · ANDA
Labeler
Sandoz Inc
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
5
NDC product codes
28
Packages
33
Data completeness
84% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Cisatracurium Besylate 10 mg/5mL 199212 View
Cisatracurium Besylate 10 mg/mL 199212 View
Cisatracurium Besylate 2 mg/mL 199212 View
Cisatracurium Besylate 20 mg/10mL 199212 View
Cisatracurium Besylate 200 mg/20mL 199212 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection
Route of administration
Intravenous
Presentations
61

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Neuromuscular Nondepolarizing Blockade [PE] PE All 11 members
Nondepolarizing Neuromuscular Blocker [EPC] EPC All 11 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
217725
Application type
ANDA · Abbreviated New Drug Application
Approval date
June 9, 2023
Sponsor
CAPLIN
Products on application
2
Submissions recorded
1
Products approved under application 217725.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
217725-001 CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE INJECTABLE CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE Prescription AP
217725-002 CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE INJECTABLE CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE Prescription AP

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AP
Reference Listed Drug
No
Reference Standard
No

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 217725.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Original application 1 Approved June 9, 2023 Standard

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260430). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260430 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260429 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20251107 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20250404

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Cisatracurium Besylate injection is indicated: • as an adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation in adults and in pediatric patients 1 month to 12 years of age • to provide skeletal muscle relaxation in adults during surgical procedures or during mechanical ventilation in the ICU • to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgical procedures via infusion in pediatric patients 2 years and older. Limitations of Use Cisatracurium besylate injection is not recommended for rapid sequence endotracheal intubation due to the time required for its onset of action. Cisatracurium besylate injection is a nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocker indicated: • as an adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation in adults and in pediatric patients 1 month to 12 years of age ( 1 ) • to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery in adults and in pediatric patients 2 to 12 years of age as a bolus or infusion maintenance ( 1 ) • for mechanical ventilation in the ICU in adults ( 1 ) Limitations of Use: Cisatracurium besylate injection is not recommended for rapid sequence endotracheal intubation due to the time required for its onset of action ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Store cisatracurium besylate injection with the cap and ferrule intact and in a manner that minimizes the possibility of selecting the wrong product (2.1) • Administer intravenously only by or under the supervision of experienced clinicians familiar with drug’s actions and possible complications ( 2.1 ) • Use only if personnel and facilities for resuscitation and life support, and a cisatracurium besylate antagonist are immediately available ( 2.1 ) • Use a peripheral nerve stimulator to determine adequacy of blockade (e.g., need for additional doses), minimize risk of overdosage or underdosage, assess extent of recovery from blockade, potentially limit exposure to toxic metabolites through dose titration, and facilitate more rapid reversal of cisatracurium besylate-induced paralysis ( 2.1 ) • See the Full Prescribing Information for: o Dosage and administration instructions in adults, pediatric patients, geriatric patients, patients with neuromuscular disease, burns, end- stage renal disease, and patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery with induced hypothermia ( 2.2 , 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 ) o Continuous infusion rates ( 2.6 ) o Preparation instructions ( 2.7 ) o Drug compatibility ( 2.8 ) 2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Instructions Risk of Medication Errors Accidental administration of neuromuscular blocking agents may be fatal. Store cisatracurium besylate injection with the cap and ferrule intact and in a manner that minimizes the possibility of selecting the wrong product [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. Important Administration Instructions • Cisatracurium besylate injection is for intravenous use only. • Administer cisatracurium besylate injection in carefully adjusted dosage by or under the supervision of experienced clinicians who are familiar with the drug’s actions and the possible complications. • Use cisatracurium besylate injection only if the following are immediately available: personnel and facilities for resuscitation and life support (tracheal intubation, artificial ventilation, oxygen therapy); and an antagonist of cisatracurium besylate injection [see Overdosage ( 10 )]. • The dosage information which follows is intended to serve as an initial guide for individual patients; base subsequent cisatracurium besylate dosage on the patients’ responses to the initial doses. • Use a peripheral nerve stimulator to: o Determine the adequacy of neuromuscular blockade (e.g., need for additional cisatracurium besylate injection doses, reduction of the infusion rate). o Minimize risk of overdosage or underdosage. o Assess the extent of recovery from neuromuscular blockade (e.g., spontaneous recovery or recovery after administration of a reversal agent, e.g., neostigmine). o Appropriately titrate doses to potentially limit exposure to toxic metabolites. o Facilitate more rapid reversal of the cisatracurium besylate injection-induced paralysis. 2.2 Recommended Cisatracurium Besylate Injection Dose for Performing Tracheal Intubation Tracheal Intubation in Adults Prior to selecting the initial cisatracurium besylate injection bolus dose, consider the desired time to tracheal intubation and the anticipated length of surgery, factors affecting time to onset of complete neuromuscular block such as age and renal function, and factors that may influence intubation conditions such as the presence of co-induction agents (e.g., fentanyl and midazolam) and the depth of anesthesia. In conjunction with a propofol/nitrous oxide/oxygen induction-intubation technique or a thiopental/nitrous oxide/oxygen induction-intubation technique, the recommended starting weight-based dose of cisatracurium besylate injection is between 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg administered by bolus intravenous injection. Doses up to 0.4 mg/kg have been safely administered by bolus intravenous injection to healthy patients and patients with serious cardiovascular disease [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Patien …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP is available as a clear colorless to slightly yellow or greenish-yellow color solution in the following strengths: • 10 mg of cisatracurium per 5 mL (2 mg/mL) in single-dose vials (equivalent to 2.68 mg/mL cisatracurium besylate). • 20 mg of cisatracurium per 10 mL (2 mg/mL) in multiple-dose vials (equivalent to 2.68 mg/mL cisatracurium besylate) with benzyl alcohol as a preservative. • 200 mg of cisatracurium per 20 mL (10 mg/mL) in single-dose vials. Injection: • 10 mg/5 mL (2 mg/mL) in single-dose vials (3) • 20 mg/10 mL (2 mg/mL) and benzyl alcohol as a preservative in multiple-dose vials (3) • 200 mg/20 mL (10 mg/mL) in single-dose vials

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS • Cisatracurium besylate injection is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cisatracurium. Severe anaphylactic reactions to cisatracurium besylate injection have been reported [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . • The use of 10 mL cisatracurium besylate injection multiple-dose vials is contraindicated for use in pediatric patients less than 1 month of age and low birth-weight infants because the formulation contains benzyl alcohol [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . • Known hypersensitivity to cisatracurium (4)

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Residual Paralysis : Patients with neuromuscular diseases are at higher risk. Use a lower initial bolus dose and consider using a reversal agent in these patients. ( 2.2 , 5.1 ) Benzyl Alcohol : Consider combined daily load of benzyl alcohol from all sources when the 10 mL multiple dose vials are used in infants. ( 4 , 5.2 ) Risk of Seizure : Monitor level of neuromuscular blockade during long-term administration to limit exposure to toxic metabolites ( 5.3 ) Hypersensitivity Reactions and Anaphylaxis : Severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylactic reactions have been reported. Consider cross-reactivity among neuromuscular blocking agents, both depolarizing and non-depolarizing. ( 4 , 5.4 ) Risk of Death due to Medication Errors : Accidental administration can cause death. ( 5.5 ) Inadequate Anesthesia : Use Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in the presence of appropriate sedation or general anesthesia and monitor patients to ensure level of anesthesia is adequate. ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Residual Paralysis Cisatracurium Besylate Injection has been associated with residual paralysis. Patients with neuromuscular diseases (e.g., myasthenia gravis and myasthenic syndrome) and carcinomatosis may be at higher risk of residual paralysis; thus, a lower maximum initial bolus is recommended in these patients [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.10 )] . To prevent complications resulting from Cisatracurium Besylate Injection-associated residual paralysis, extubation is recommended only after the patient has recovered sufficiently from neuromuscular blockade. Consider use of a reversal agent especially in cases where residual paralysis is more likely to occur [see Overdosage ( 10 )] . 5.2 Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions in Infants due to Benzyl Alcohol Preservative in 10 mL Multiple-Dose Vials Serious and fatal adverse reactions including “gasping syndrome” can occur in neonates and infants treated with benzyl alcohol-preserved drugs, including Cisatracurium Besylate Injection (10 mL multiple-dose vials). This warning is not applicable to the 5 mL and 20 mL Cisatracurium Besylate Injection single-dose vials because these vials do not contain benzyl alcohol. The “gasping syndrome” is characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, and gasping respirations. When prescribing the 10 mL multiple-dose Cisatracurium Besylate Injection vials in infants consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources including Cisatracurium Besylate Injection (multiple-dose vials contain 9 mg of benzyl alcohol per mL) and other drugs containing benzyl alcohol. The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which serious adverse reactions may occur is not known [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . The use of 10 mL Cisatracurium Besylate Injection multiple-dose vials is contraindicated in pediatric patients less than 1 month of age and low birth-weight infants because these patients are more likely to develop benzyl alcohol toxicity [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . 5.3 Risk of Seizure Laudanosine, an active metabolite of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection, has been shown to cause seizures in animals. Cisatracurium Besylate Injection-treated patients with renal or hepatic impairment may have higher metabolite concentrations (including laudanosine) than patients with normal renal and hepatic function [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Therefore, patients with renal or hepatic impairment receiving extended administration of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection may be at higher risk of seizures. The level of neuromuscular blockade during long-term Cisatracurium Besylate Injection administration should be monitored with a nerve stimulator to titrate Cisatracurium Besylate Injection administration to the patients’ needs and limit exposure to toxic metabolites. 5.4 Hypersensitivity Reactions Including Anaphylaxis Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions (0.1% to 0.4%) were bradycardia, hypotension, flushing, bronchospasm, and rash. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC at 1-888-341-9214 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in Surgical Patients The data presented below are based on studies involving 945 surgical patients who received Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in conjunction with other drugs in US and European clinical studies in a variety of procedures [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Table 3 displays adverse reactions that occurred at a rate of less than 1%. Table 3. Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in Surgical Patients Adverse Reaction Incidence Bradycardia 0.4% Hypotension 0.2% Flushing 0.2% Bronchospasm 0.2% Rash 0.1% Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in Intensive Care Unit Patients The adverse reactions presented below were from studies involving 68 adult ICU patients who received Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in conjunction with other drugs in US and European clinical studies [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . One patient experienced bronchospasm. In one of the two ICU studies, a randomized and double-blind study of ICU patients using TOF neuromuscular monitoring, there were two reports of prolonged recovery (range: 167 and 270 minutes) among 28 patients administered Cisatracurium Besylate Injection and 13 reports of prolonged recovery (range: 90 minutes to 33 hours) among 30 patients administered vecuronium. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following events have been identified during post-approval use of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in conjunction with one or more anesthetic agents in clinical practice. Because they are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, estimates of frequency cannot be made. These events have been chosen for inclusion due to a combination of their seriousness, frequency of reporting, or potential causal connection to Cisatracurium Besylate Injection: anaphylaxis, histamine release, prolonged neuromuscular block, muscle weakness, myopathy.

6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in Surgical Patients The data presented below are based on studies involving 945 surgical patients who received Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in conjunction with other drugs in US and European clinical studies in a variety of procedures [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Table 3 displays adverse reactions that occurred at a rate of less than 1%. Table 3. Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in Surgical Patients Adverse Reaction Incidence Bradycardia 0.4% Hypotension 0.2% Flushing 0.2% Bronchospasm 0.2% Rash 0.1% Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in Intensive Care Unit Patients The adverse reactions presented below were from studies involving 68 adult ICU patients who received Cisatracurium Besylate Injection in conjunction with other drugs in US and European clinical studies [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . One patient experienced bronchospasm. In one of the two ICU studies, a randomized and double-blind study of ICU patients using TOF neuromuscular monitoring, there were two reports o …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Succinylcholine : May decrease time to onset of maximum neuromuscular blockade ( 7.1 ) Inhalational anesthetics, antibiotics, local anesthetics, magnesium salts, procainamide, lithium, quinidine : May potentiate or prolong neuromuscular blockade action of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection. Use peripheral nerve stimulator and monitor clinical signs of neuromuscular blockade. ( 5.8 , 7.1 ) Phenytoin and Carbamazepine : May shorten duration of neuromuscular blockade. Use peripheral nerve stimulator and monitor clinical signs of neuromuscular blockade. ( 5.9 , 7.1 ) 7.1 Clinically Significant Drug Interactions Table 4 displays clinically significant drug interactions with Cisatracurium Besylate Injection. Table 4. Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Cisatracurium Besylate Injection Drug or Drug Class Clinical Implications* Succinylcholine The use of succinylcholine prior to Cisatracurium Besylate Injection administration may decrease the time to onset of maximum neuromuscular blockade but has no effect on the duration of neuromuscular blockade. Inhalational Anesthetics Administration of inhalational anesthetics with nitrous oxide/oxygen for greater than 30 minutes to achieve 1.25 Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) may prolong the duration of action of initial and maintenance doses of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection. This may potentiate the neuromuscular blockade. Antibiotics† Local anesthetics Magnesium salts Procainamide Lithium Quinidine May prolong the neuromuscular blockade action of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection Phenytoin, Carbamazepine May increase resistance to the neuromuscular blockade action of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection resulting in shorter durations of neuromuscular blockade and infusion rate requirements may be higher. * The use of peripheral nerve stimulator is strongly recommended to evaluate the level of neuromuscular blockade, to assess the need for additional doses of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection, and to determine whether adjustments need to be made to the dose with subsequent administration. † Examples: aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, bacitracin, polymyxins, lincomycin, clindamycin, colistin, sodium colistimethate 7.2 Drugs Without Clinically Significant Drug Interactions With Cisatracurium Besylate Injection In clinical studies, propofol had no effect on the duration of action or dosing requirements for Cisatracurium Besylate Injection. Cisatracurium Besylate Injection is not compatible with propofol for Y-site administration.

7.1 Clinically Significant Drug Interactions Table 4 displays clinically significant drug interactions with Cisatracurium Besylate Injection. Table 4. Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Cisatracurium Besylate Injection Drug or Drug Class Clinical Implications* Succinylcholine The use of succinylcholine prior to Cisatracurium Besylate Injection administration may decrease the time to onset of maximum neuromuscular blockade but has no effect on the duration of neuromuscular blockade. Inhalational Anesthetics Administration of inhalational anesthetics with nitrous oxide/oxygen for greater than 30 minutes to achieve 1.25 Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) may prolong the duration of action of initial and maintenance doses of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection. This may potentiate the neuromuscular blockade. Antibiotics† Local anesthetics Magnesium salts Procainamide Lithium Quinidine May prolong the neuromuscular blockade action of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection Phenytoin, Carbamazepine May increase resistance to the neuromuscular blockade action of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection resulting in shorter durations of neuromuscular blockade and infusion rate requirements may be higher. * The use of peripheral nerve stimulator is strongly recommended to evaluate the level of neuromuscular blockade, to assess the need for additional doses of Cisatracurium Besylate Injection, and to determine whether adjustments need to be made to the dose …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Patients with Hemiparesis or Paraparesis: Perform neuromuscular monitoring on non-paretic limb (8.9) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The 10 mL cisatracurium besylate injection multiple-dose vials contain the preservative benzyl alcohol. Therefore, if cisatracurium besylate injection is needed during pregnancy, consider using a benzyl alcohol-free formulation (i.e., 5 mL and 20 mL cisatracurium besylate injection single-dose vials). Because benzyl alcohol is rapidly metabolized by a pregnant woman, benzyl alcohol exposure in the fetus is unlikely. However, adverse reactions have occurred in premature neonates and low birth weight infants who received intravenously administered benzyl alcohol-containing drugs [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)] . There are no available clinical trial data on cisatracurium use in pregnancy to evaluate a drug- associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Animal studies conducted in rats administered cisatracurium besylate during organogenesis (Gestational Day 6 to 15) found no evidence of fetal harm at 0.8 times (ventilated rats) the exposure from a human starting IV bolus dose of 0.2 mg/kg (see Data). The estimated background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage in the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Labor or Delivery The action of neuromuscular blocking agents may be enhanced by magnesium salts administered for the management of preeclampsia or eclampsia of pregnancy. Data Animal Data Two embryofetal developmental reproductive toxicity studies were conducted in rats. In a non-ventilated rat study, pregnant animals were treated with cisatracurium besylate subcutaneously twice per day from Gestational Day 6 to 15 using subparalyzing doses (2 and 4 mg/kg daily; equivalent to 6- and 12-times, respectively, the AUC exposure in humans following a bolus dose of 0.2 mg/kg IV). In the ventilated rat study, pregnant animals were treated with cisatracurium besylate intravenously once a day between Gestational Day 6 to 15 using paralyzing doses (0.5 and 1 mg/kg; equivalent to 0.4- and 0.8-times, respectively, the exposure in humans following a bolus dose of 0.2 mg/kg IV based on mg/m2 comparison). Neither of these studies revealed maternal or fetal toxicity or malformations. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary The 10 mL cisatracurium besylate injection multiple-dose vials contains the preservative benzyl alcohol. Therefore, if cisatracurium besylate injection is needed during lactation, consider using a benzyl alcohol-free formulation (i.e., 5 mL and 20 mL cisatracurium besylate injection single-dose vials). Because benzyl alcohol is rapidly metabolized by a lactating woman, benzyl alcohol exposure in the breastfed infant is unlikely. However, adverse reactions have occurred in premature neonates and low birth weight infants who received intravenously administered benzyl alcohol-containing drugs [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)] . There are no data on the presence of cisatracurium besylate in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for cisatracurium besylate injection and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from cisatracurium besylate injection or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of cisatracurium besylate injection as an adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation, and to provide skeletal …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Cisatracurium besylate injection binds competitively to cholinergic receptors on the motor end-plate to antagonize the action of acetylcholine, resulting in blockade of neuromuscular transmission. This action is antagonized by acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as neostigmine .

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP is a nondepolarizing skeletal neuromuscular blocker for intravenous administration. Compared to other neuromuscular blockers, it is intermediate in its onset and duration of action. Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP contains cisatracurium besylate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient. Cisatracurium besylate is one of 10 isomers of atracurium besylate and constitutes approximately 15% of that mixture. Cisatracurium besylate is [1 R -[1α,2α(1' R *,2' R *)]]-2,2'-[1,5-pentanediylbis[oxy(3-oxo-3,1-propanediyl)]]bis[1-[(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6,7-dimethoxy-2-methylisoquinolinium] dibenzenesulfonate. The molecular formula of the cisatracurium parent bis-cation is C 53 H 72 N 2 O 12 and the molecular weight is 929.2. The molecular formula of cisatracurium as the besylate salt is C 65 H 82 N 2 O 18 S 2 and the molecular weight is 1243.49. The structural formula of cisatracurium besylate is: The log of the partition coefficient of cisatracurium besylate is -2.12 in a 1-octanol/distilled water system at 25°C. Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, clear colorless to slightly yellow or greenish-yellow solution. Each mL in the single-dose vials contains 2 mg of cisatracurium (equivalent to 2.68 mg of cisatracurium besylate, USP), and benzenesulfonic acid as pH adjuster in water for injection. Each mL in the multiple-dose vials contains 2 mg of cisatracurium (equivalent to 2.68 mg of cisatracurium besylate, USP), benzenesulfonic acid as pH adjuster, and also contains 9 mg of benzyl alcohol as preservative, in water for injection. The pH of cisatracurium besylate injection, USP is between 3.0 and 3.8. Chemical Structure

10 OVERDOSAGE Overdosage with neuromuscular blocking agents may result in neuromuscular blockade beyond the time needed for surgery and anesthesia. The primary treatment is maintenance of a patent airway and controlled ventilation until recovery of normal neuromuscular function is assured. Once recovery from neuromuscular block begins, further recovery may be facilitated by administration of a cholinesterase inhibitor (e.g., neostigmine, edrophonium) in conjunction with an appropriate cholinergic inhibitor. Cholinesterase inhibitors should not be administered when complete neuromuscular blockade is evident or suspected because the reversal of paralysis may not be sufficient to maintain a patent airway and support an appropriate level of spontaneous ventilation. • Neostigmine : Administration of 0.04 to 0.07 mg/kg of neostigmine at approximately 10% recovery from neuromuscular blockade (range: 0 to 15%) produced 95% recovery of the muscle twitch response and a T 4 :T 1 ratio ≥ 70% in an average of 9 to 10 minutes. The times from 25% recovery of the muscle twitch response to a T 4 :T 1 ratio ≥ 70% following these doses of neostigmine averaged 7 minutes. The mean 25% to 75% recovery index following reversal was 3 to 4 minutes. • Edrophonium : Administration of 1 mg/kg of edrophonium at approximately 25% recovery from neuromuscular blockade (range: 16% to 30%) produced 95% recovery and a T 4 :T 1 ratio ≥ 70% in an average of 3 to 5 minutes. For providers treating patients treated with cholinesterase inhibitors: • Use a peripheral nerve stimulator to evaluate recovery and antagonism of neuromuscular blockade • Evaluate for evidence of adequate clinical recovery (e.g., 5-second head lift and grip strength). • Support ventilation until adequate spontaneous ventilation has resumed. The onset of antagonism may be delayed in the presence of debilitation, cachexia, carcinomatosis, and the concomitant use of certain broad spectrum antibiotics, or anesthetic agents and other drugs which enhance neuromuscular block or separately cause respiratory depression [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Under such circumstances the management is the same as that of prolonged neuromuscular block.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP is a clear solution supplied as follows: Strength (mg of cisatracurium) Containers NDC# Preservative 10 mg/5 mL (2 mg/mL) 5 mL Single dose vial in a carton 31722-313-01 Does not contain benzyl alcohol 5 mL Single dose vial 31722-313-02 5 mL Single dose vials in a Carton of 10 31722-313-10 20 mg/10 mL (2 mg/mL) 10 mL Multiple-dose vial in a carton 31722-314-01 Contains 0.9% w/v benzyl alcohol [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] 10 mL Multiple-dose vial 31722-314-02 10 mL Multiple-dose vials in a Carton of 10 31722-314-10 200 mg/20 mL (10 mg/mL) 5 mL Single dose vial in a carton 31722-312-01 Does not contain benzyl alcohol 5 mL Single dose vial 31722-312-02 5 mL Single dose vials in a Carton of 10 31722-312-10 Discard unused portion of the 5 mL and 20 mL single-dose vials. Storage Refrigerate Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) in the carton to preserve potency. Protect from light. DO NOT FREEZE. Upon removal of unused vials from refrigeration to room temperature storage conditions (25°C/77°F), use Cisatracurium besylate injection, USP within 21 days, even if re-refrigerated.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
2,194
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class III December 24, 2025 SOMERSET THERAPEUTICS LLC Subpotent product:out of specification assay results observed during long term stability testing. Ongoing
Class III December 24, 2025 SOMERSET THERAPEUTICS LLC Subpotent product:out of specification assay results observed during long term stability testing. Ongoing
Class III December 24, 2025 SOMERSET THERAPEUTICS LLC Subpotent product:out of specification assay results observed during long term stability testing. Ongoing

Shortages

Source: FDA Drug Shortages
Availability records from the FDA Drug Shortages database.
Status Availability Company Presentation Updated
To Be Discontinued Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Cisatracurium Besylate, Injection, 10 mg/5ml (2 mg/mL) Single Dose Vial (NDC 0409-1098-02) September 11, 2026
To Be Discontinued Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Cisatracurium Besylate, Injection, 20 mg/10 mL (2 mg/mL) Multidose Vial (NDC 0409-1208-01) May 6, 2026
To Be Discontinued Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Cisatracurium Besylate, Injection, 200 mg/20ml (10 mg/mL) Single Dose Vial (NDC 0409-1103-01) May 6, 2026

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
72485-513-10 72485-513 Armas Pharmaceuticals 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (72485-513-10) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (72485-513-01) January 15, 2025
31722-312-10 31722-312 Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc. 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (31722-312-10) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (31722-312-02) May 4, 2026
31722-313-10 31722-313 Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc. 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (31722-313-10) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (31722-313-02) May 4, 2026
31722-314-10 31722-314 Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc. 10 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (31722-314-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE (31722-314-02) May 4, 2026
65145-135-01 65145-135 Caplin Steriles Limited 1 VIAL, SINGLE-USE in 1 CARTON (65145-135-01) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-USE January 17, 2025
65145-135-10 65145-135 Caplin Steriles Limited 10 VIAL, SINGLE-USE in 1 CARTON (65145-135-10) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-USE January 17, 2025
65145-136-01 65145-136 Caplin Steriles Limited 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (65145-136-01) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE January 17, 2025
65145-136-10 65145-136 Caplin Steriles Limited 10 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (65145-136-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE January 17, 2025
65145-137-01 65145-137 Caplin Steriles Limited 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (65145-137-01) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE January 17, 2025
55150-284-10 55150-284 Eugia US LLC 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (55150-284-10) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (55150-284-01) October 27, 2020
55150-286-10 55150-286 Eugia US LLC 10 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (55150-286-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE (55150-286-01) May 8, 2020
68083-486-01 68083-486 Gland Pharma Limited 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68083-486-01) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE March 19, 2025
68083-487-01 68083-487 Gland Pharma Limited 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68083-487-01) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE March 19, 2025
68083-488-01 68083-488 Gland Pharma Limited 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68083-488-01) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE March 19, 2025
0143-9160-10 0143-9160 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0143-9160-10) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL (0143-9160-01) March 17, 2025
0143-9396-01 0143-9396 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0143-9396-01) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL May 31, 2023
0143-9397-10 0143-9397 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0143-9397-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL (0143-9397-01) March 17, 2025
0781-3150-95 0781-3150 Sandoz Inc 10 BOX in 1 CARTON (0781-3150-95) / 1 VIAL in 1 BOX (0781-3150-75) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL July 16, 2012
0781-3152-95 0781-3152 Sandoz Inc 10 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0781-3152-95) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE (0781-3152-70) July 16, 2012
0781-3153-95 0781-3153 Sandoz Inc 10 BOX in 1 CARTON (0781-3153-95) / 1 VIAL in 1 BOX (0781-3153-80) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL July 16, 2012
70436-112-82 70436-112 Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (70436-112-82) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE September 2, 2021
70436-113-82 70436-113 Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (70436-113-82) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE December 1, 2023
70436-114-82 70436-114 Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (70436-114-82) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE September 2, 2021
70069-141-01 70069-141 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-141-01) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL February 4, 2019
70069-141-10 70069-141 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-141-10) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL February 4, 2019
70069-151-01 70069-151 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-151-01) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL February 4, 2019
70069-151-10 70069-151 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-151-10) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL February 4, 2019
70069-161-01 70069-161 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-161-01) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL August 2, 2019
70069-161-10 70069-161 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC 10 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (70069-161-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE August 2, 2019
72785-0008-6 72785-0008 Zydus Lifesciences Limited 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (72785-0008-6) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL (72785-0008-1) February 12, 2020
72785-0009-6 72785-0009 Zydus Lifesciences Limited 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (72785-0009-6) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL (72785-0009-1) February 12, 2020
70710-1532-6 70710-1532 Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70710-1532-6) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL (70710-1532-1) February 12, 2020
70710-1534-6 70710-1534 Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70710-1534-6) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL (70710-1534-1) February 12, 2020
72485-513 72485-513 Armas Pharmaceuticals — January 15, 2025
31722-312 31722-312 Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc. — May 4, 2026
31722-313 31722-313 Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc. — May 4, 2026
31722-314 31722-314 Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc. — May 4, 2026
65145-135 65145-135 Caplin Steriles Limited — January 17, 2025
65145-136 65145-136 Caplin Steriles Limited — January 17, 2025
65145-137 65145-137 Caplin Steriles Limited — January 17, 2025
55150-284 55150-284 Eugia US LLC — October 27, 2020
55150-286 55150-286 Eugia US LLC — May 8, 2020
68083-486 68083-486 Gland Pharma Limited — March 19, 2025
68083-487 68083-487 Gland Pharma Limited — March 19, 2025
68083-488 68083-488 Gland Pharma Limited — March 19, 2025
0143-9160 0143-9160 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — March 17, 2025
0143-9396 0143-9396 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — May 31, 2023
0143-9397 0143-9397 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — March 17, 2025
0781-3150 0781-3150 Sandoz Inc — July 16, 2012
0781-3152 0781-3152 Sandoz Inc — July 16, 2012
0781-3153 0781-3153 Sandoz Inc — July 16, 2012
70436-112 70436-112 Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC — September 2, 2021
70436-113 70436-113 Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC — December 1, 2023
70436-114 70436-114 Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC — September 2, 2021
70069-141 70069-141 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC — February 4, 2019
70069-151 70069-151 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC — February 4, 2019
70069-161 70069-161 Somerset Therapeutics, LLC — August 2, 2019
72785-0008 72785-0008 Zydus Lifesciences Limited — February 12, 2020
72785-0009 72785-0009 Zydus Lifesciences Limited — February 12, 2020
70710-1532 70710-1532 Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — February 12, 2020
70710-1534 70710-1534 Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — February 12, 2020

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Enforcement FDA Recall records
Drug Shortages FDA Supply availability

Generated September 25, 2026 · 14 sections on this page.