Cisatracurium vs Atracurium — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Minimal dose-dependent histamine release with Hofmann elimination
The best answer is “Minimal dose-dependent histamine release with Hofmann elimination”. Cisatracurium undergoes Hofmann elimination and clinical studies found no dose-dependent histamine release even at high multiples of ED95. Atracurium has more histamine-release potential. Cisatracurium is a non-depolarising blocker and is not dependent on hepatic CYP metabolism or plasma cholinesterase.
Reference: Cisatracurium 2 mg/mL, Summary of Product Characteristics: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1380/smpc