depolarizing neuromuscular blockade

Depolarizing neuromuscular blockade is a type of muscle relaxation used during surgery. It involves a drug that mimics a natural nerve signal, causing muscles to contract initially, then become unable to contract further. This temporary paralysis helps surgeons operate more easily. The drug binds to nerve receptors on muscle cells, keeping them active longer than normal, which ultimately prevents the muscles from responding to nerve signals. The effect wears off as the body breaks down the drug, allowing normal muscle function to return. Commonly used depolarizing agents include succinylcholine.