Abstract
Sugammadex, synthesized as a selective relaxant binding agent for rocuronium, should be an “history-making” drug in clinical anesthesia. The sugammadex molecule encapsulates the lipophilic steroid rings of rocuronium and forms a 1: 1 host-guest complex. In addition, negatively-charged carboxyl groups around the perimeter of cyclic sugammadex easily attract the positively-charged quaternary nitrogen of rocuronium. Even in a profound block induced by rocuronium, adequate reversal can be obtained within 1-2 min after a bolus administration of sugammadex. No specific side effects and recurrence have been seen. Sugammadex should make it easier to treat patients with a difficult airway and decrease postoperative respiratory complications caused by residual neuromuscular block. In the near future, the rocuronium-sugammadex combination will reliably contribute to patient safety.
