Which neuromuscular blocking agent does NOT produce active metabolites?

Rocuronium is a neuromuscular blocking agent that does not produce active metabolites. This characteristic is important for its pharmacological profile, as it means that once Rocuronium is metabolized, it does not lead to the accumulation of active products that could prolong its neuromuscular blocking effects.

This is in contrast to other neuromuscular blockers like Pancuronium and Vecuronium, which do produce active metabolites. The presence of these metabolites can lead to prolonged neuromuscular blockade, especially in patients with renal impairment. Succinylcholine, while it has a very short duration of action due to rapid hydrolysis, also produces metabolites that can cause side effects, such as muscle pain.

Rocuronium, being a steroid-based neuromuscular blocker, has a rapid onset and intermediate duration of action, making it desirable for procedures where quick and reversible muscle relaxation is required. Its lack of active metabolites contributes to a more predictable recovery profile after administration.