Both depolarizing and non-depolarizing drugs produce flaccid paralysis and apnoea. However, the agents differ in the contraindications for their use and unwanted effects.

Succinylcholine has many more adverse effects and contraindications to its use than either vecuronium or atracurium. While it is not possible within the scope of this session to cover all these in detail, it is important that you recognize clinical situations where it is inappropriate to use succinylcholine and ask for senior advice as to how to proceed, particularly if an RSI is needed for an emergency procedure.