Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 11/21/2009

Question
How long should I have muscle pain after being intubated using a paralytic?

Answer
I am assuming they used succinylcholine as the other muscle relaxants don't usually cause muscle pain. Generally the pain goes away within a week. If it is longer or it is getting worse, you should see your doctor.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston