Cisatracurium Besylate and Lorbrena

• Generic Name: cisatracurium
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Nimbex

Production of skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery after general anesthesia has been induced.

Facilitation of endotracheal intubation; however, a neuromuscular blocking agent with a rapid onset of action (e.g., succinylcholine, rocuronium) generally preferred in emergency situations when rapid intubation is required. Cisatracurium is not recommended for rapid sequence intubation because of its intermediate onset of action.

Also has been used to facilitate mechanical ventilation in the ICU. Has been given as a continuous IV infusion for up to 6 days in this setting. Whenever neuromuscular blocking agents are used in the ICU, consider benefits versus risks of such therapy and assess patients frequently to determine need for continued paralysis. (See Intensive Care Setting under Cautions.)

Compared with other neuromuscular blocking agents, cisatracurium has an intermediate onset and duration of action; exhibits minimal, if any, cardiovascular effects; and causes less histamine release than atracurium. Because elimination is not dependent on renal or hepatic pathways, may be particularly useful in patients with hepatic or renal dysfunction.

• Generic Name: lorlatinib
• Dosage Forms: tablet, film coated
• Other Brand Names: Lorbrena

Lorbrena (lorlatinib) is prescription medicine used to treat a certain type of non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

Lorbrena is used only if your cancer has a specific genetic marker (an abnormal "ALK" gene). Your doctor will test you for this gene.

Lorbrena is given after other cancer treatments did not work or have stopped working.

Lorbrena was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on an "accelerated" basis. In clinical studies, some people responded to this medicine, but further studies are needed.