**Core Concept**
Cisatracurium and atracurium are both non-depolarizing muscle relaxants used in anesthesia for facilitating endotracheal intubation and providing muscle relaxation during surgery. The difference between these two drugs lies in their pharmacokinetic profiles and metabolisms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Cisatracurium is a more selective and potent isomer of atracurium, with a faster onset and shorter duration of action. It is metabolized through Hofmann elimination, a chemical process that is independent of liver or kidney function, making it a safer choice for patients with renal or hepatic impairment. This unique property of cisatracurium is the primary reason for its preference over atracurium.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not specified, so we cannot provide an explanation.
**Option B:** While cisatracurium does have a faster onset compared to atracurium, this is not the primary advantage that makes it the preferred choice.
**Option C:** Cisatracurium does not have a significantly longer duration of action compared to atracurium; in fact, its duration of action is slightly shorter.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to note that cisatracurium's metabolism through Hofmann elimination is a chemical process that is independent of liver or kidney function, making it a safer choice for patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
**Correct Answer:** C.
Free Medical MCQs · NEET PG · USMLE · AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.