Kickstart your understanding of neuromuscular blocking agents

Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs), which act at neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), are used to induce neuromuscular blockade. Some of the terminology associated with NMBAs may be confused with that used in relation to locoregional anaesthesia (nerve blocks), although the two are distinct. This article outlines the NMJs and neurotransmission, commonly used NMBAs and their effects on the NMJs, methods for monitoring and antagonising NMB drugs, and factors that influence patient recovery.