What is the treatment for malignant hyperthermia?

• A. IV Dantrolene
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Naloxone
• D. Acetylcysteine

Answer: (A)

Malignant hyperthermia causes a rapid, life-threatening surge of calcium release in skeletal muscle, leading to extreme muscle rigidity, heat, acidosis, and electrolyte disturbances. The treatment is IV dantrolene, which directly counters the problem by inhibiting calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, thereby stopping the hypermetabolic cascade and reducing muscle rigidity and heat production. Start by stopping triggering agents and giving 100% oxygen, then actively cool the patient with cooling measures while you administer dantrolene. Begin with an initial dose of 2.5 mg/kg IV and repeat as needed every 5–10 minutes, with a total dose that can reach around 10 mg/kg or more depending on response. Alongside dantrolene, address hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis, maintain aggressive cooling, monitor urine output and lab values (like CK), and provide comprehensive supportive care. The other drugs listed do not treat malignant hyperthermia and are not appropriate remedies for this condition.