Final answer:
Depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, such as succinylcholine, mimic the action of acetylcholine by binding to ACh receptors on muscle fibers and causing continuous depolarization. This prevents muscle contraction, resulting in paralysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBs) work by mimicking the action of acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter that normally stimulates muscle contraction. These NMBs bind to ACh receptors on the muscle fiber, causing the opening of ion channels and depolarization of the muscle membrane. This results in muscle paralysis.
Succinylcholine (SCh) is an example of a depolarizing NMB. It binds to the ACh receptors and stays attached for a longer duration compared to ACh. This prolonged binding leads to continuous depolarization and prevents the repolarization of the muscle membrane. As a result, the muscle cannot contract and remains in a state of paralysis.