What is in this leaflet
This leaflet answers some common questions about Nimbex. It does not contain all of the available information.
Taking any medicine involves some risk. It is possible that all risks associated with this medicine might not have been detected, despite proper testing.
If you have any concerns about the use of Nimbex ask your doctor.
Keep this information.
You may want to read it again.
This leaflet provides information about Nimbex. The statements that are made in this leaflet cannot be applied to any other medicine, even those that are similar or appear to contain the same ingredients.
What Nimbex is used for
Nimbex is used to relax the body’s muscles. Nimbex will normally be given to you when you are in surgery, or during other medical procedures. Nimbex is only used in conjunction with an anaesthetic, so you will be asleep during the procedure.
If you have any questions about why Nimbex is used ask your doctor.
How does Nimbex work?
Cisatracurium besilate (the active ingredient in Nimbex) belongs to a group of medicines called “neuromuscular blockers”.
Nimbex works by blocking the effects of one of the body’s chemical messengers called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is involved in muscle contraction.
By relaxing your body’s muscles Nimbex makes it easier for you to be kept asleep (under anaesthesia) or sedation.
Your doctor will be able to provide you with more information.
Before you use Nimbex
Nimbex is not suitable for everyone.
Before Nimbex is used make sure that your doctor knows if:
1. You are allergic to:
- cisatracurium besilate, atracurium or benzenesulfonic acid,
- any other muscle relaxants.
2. You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
3. You suffer from myasthenia gravis, or any other form of neuromuscular disease.
4. You, or a relative have had previous difficulties with anaesthetics.
5. You are allergic to any other muscle relaxant medicine.
6. You are taking any other medication, including:
- Antibiotics,
- Anti-arrhythmics, which are used to control irregular heart or rapid heart beat,
- Diuretics, used to increase your volume of urine,
- Magnesium or lithium salts,
- Phenytoin or carbamazepine (for fits),
- Any other medicine that you buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.
Your doctor will have a complete list of the medicines that may cause problems when taken with Nimbex.
When Nimbex must not be used
Nimbex should not be used after the expiry date printed on the pack.
Using Nimbex
Nimbex is a medicine that is given by injection. Nimbex will be administered by an anaesthetist or other highly trained doctor, usually during surgery or other medical procedures. The dosage will vary according to many factors such as body weight and the duration of the procedure.
If you have any questions about the dose that you will receive ask your doctor.
In case of overdose
Overdoses of Nimbex lead to prolonged relaxation of the body’s muscles. This can be readily treated, however, this situation is unlikely to occur because Nimbex is only administered by an anaesthetist or other highly trained doctor who will closely monitor your progress.
After being treated with Nimbex
Your doctor will be able to tell you whether there are any special instructions after you have been treated with Nimbex.
Side effects
All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious. Most of the time they are not.
Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you do not feel well after you have received Nimbex.
It is possible that Nimbex may cause the following side effects:
- Flushing of the face and upper body,
- Slow heart beat,
- Low blood pressure,
- Skin rashes or ‘hives’ anywhere on the body,
- Swelling of eyelids, face, lips mouth or tongue,
- Difficulty breathing, collapse and shock.
Ask your doctor to answer any questions you may have.
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some people.
There is no evidence that Nimbex is addictive.
Storage
Nimbex should be stored by the hospital’s pharmacy between 2° and 8°C and protected from light.
Nimbex does not contain any antimicrobial preservative. When diluted, the preparation should be used immediately and any remaining solution must be discarded within 24 hours following dilution.
Product description
What it looks like
Nimbex is a pale yellow or greenish yellow solution.
Nimbex Injection 2 mg/mL (all sizes) are presented in glass ampoules. Available in packs of 5 ampoules.
Nimbex Injection 5 mg/mL is presented in glass vials. Available in packs of 1 vial.
Ingredients
Nimbex Injection 2 mg/mL contains 2 mg cisatracurium besilate in every mL.
Nimbex Injection 5 mg/mL contains 5 mg cisatracurium besilate in every mL.
Nimbex also contains benzenesulfonic acid and water for Injections.
Sponsor
Aspen Pharmacare Australia Pty Ltd
34-36 Chandos Street
St Leonards NSW 2065
Australia.
Nimbex Australian Registration Numbers:
- 5 mg/2.5 mL injection ampoule - AUST R 55913
- 10 mg/5 mL injection ampoule - AUST R 55931
- 150 mg/30 mL injection vial – AUST R 55934
This leaflet was revised in January 2023.