Neuromuscular blocker storage chart
Neuromuscular blockers are paralysing agents used in anaesthetics and critical care settings. Most require refrigerated storage (2 - 8°C).
If neuromuscular blockers are removed from refrigeration but not used, they MUST NOT be returned to the refrigerator. Instead their storage conditions and expiry date need to be adjusted.
The AdPha Surgery and Perioperative Medicine Leadership Committee has developed the Neuromuscular Blocker Storage Chart (link below) to guide hospitals on adjusted storage and expiry for these medicines.
Important: This chart is not intended for managing fridge temperature excursions. If this occurs, contact your pharmacist for advice.
Updates to Guidance
- Scheduled updates: Published every June and December.
- Ad hoc updates: May occur at any time when new brands or storage requirements become available.
Action:
- Always check the effective date on the chart.
- If the chart does not include the information you need, revisit this page—there may be a recent unscheduled update.
CURRENT version: effective dates 1 September 2025 - 1 December 2025.
Next version 1 Dec 2025 - 1 Jun 2026 is now available for download below.
Please direct any questions to the AdPha Specialty Practice team.