Y55.1: Skeletal muscle relaxants [neuromuscular blocking agents]

Skeletal muscle relaxants, specifically neuromuscular blocking agents, play a major role in managing muscle movement disorders. These medicines work in the nervous system and act on chemicals that facilitate muscle contraction. When administered, they block these chemicals, resulting in the relaxation of muscles throughout the body. Precise use of these agents can help in certain medical procedures such as facilitating endotracheal intubation or surgeries where muscle relaxation is crucial. However, misuse or overuse can lead to complications — a condition that usually manifests as prolonged muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, or muscle paralysis after medication use. It's noteworthy that this is not an inherent condition or disease, but a potential consequence of the medication use. It's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and physician’s instructions to avoid undesirable effects.