What is sugammadex?

Sugammadex reverses the effects of certain medications that are given during surgical procedures to relax your muscles.

Sugammadex is used at the end of surgery, to help restore muscle function that has been blocked during surgery by the other medicines.

Sugammadex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

Before you receive sugammadex, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies, and all the medicines you are using. Also make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use sugammadex if you are allergic to it.

To make sure sugammadex is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);

liver disease;

a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia;

low levels of platelets in blood; or

a breathing disorder.

It is not known whether sugammadex will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

Sugammadex can make hormonal birth control less effective. For at least 7 days after you receive sugammadex, use a non-hormonal back-up birth control (condom or diaphragm with spermicide) to prevent pregnancy. Hormonal contraception (birth control pills, injections, implants, skin patches, and vaginal rings) may not be effective enough to prevent pregnancy during this time.

It is not known whether sugammadex passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is sugammadex given?

Sugammadex is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this medicine in a single injection.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, kidney function, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving sugammadex.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since sugammadex is used as a single dose, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since sugammadex is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving sugammadex?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Sugammadex side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, skin rash or redness; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);

itching;

eye pain, itching, or discomfort; or

extreme weakness, weak or shallow breathing.

Common side effects may include:

slow heartbeats;

nausea, vomiting;

pain;

headache; or

a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.