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Curare: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Curare - General Information

A neuromuscular blocker and active ingredient in curare; plant based alkaloid of Menispermaceae. [PubChem]

 

Pharmacology of Curare

Curare, a naturally occurring alkaloid, is used to treat smoking withdrawl syndrom.

 

Additional information about Curare

Curare Indication

Used as a diagnosis agent for myasthenia gravis, and also to facilitate the intubation after induction of anesthesia in surgical procedure

Mechanism Of Action
Curare, the chief alkaloid in tobacco products, binds stereo-selectively to nicotinic-cholinergic receptors at the autonomic ganglia, in the adrenal medulla, at neuromuscular junctions, and in the brain. Two types of central nervous system effects are believed to be the basis of Curare's positively reinforcing properties. A stimulating effect is exerted mainly in the cortex via the locus ceruleus and a reward effect is exerted in the limbic system. At low doses the stimulant effects predominate while at high doses the reward effects predominate. Intermittent intravenous administration of Curare activates neurohormonal pathways, releasing acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, vasopressin, beta-endorphin, growth hormone, and ACTH.
Generic Name
Tubocurarine
Synonyms
D-Tubocurarine; D-Tubocurarine Chloride; Isoquinoline Alkaloid; Tubocurarin; Tubocurarine Chloride; Tubocurarinum
Drug Category
Neuromuscular Nondepolarizing Agents; Skeletal Muscle Relaxants; Nicotinic Antagonists
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Approved
Other Brand Names containing Tubocurarine
Delacurarine; Jexin; Tubarine; Curare;
Dosage Forms of Curare
Solution Intravenous
Chemical Formula
C37H41N2O6+
Organisms Affected
Humans and other mammals