Methoxyflurane
introduced in 1962
BGPC 11
non-flammable
metabolism up to 50%
enzyme induction
good analgesic in subanaesthetic concentrations
Halothane
introduced in 1956
BCPC 2.4
potent, non-flammable, sweet odour
depresses myocardial contractility, small changes in peripheral resistance
mild ß stimulant effects
may cause arrhythmias, sensitises the myocardium to dysrhythmic effects of catecholamines
(Usually junctional)
Enflurane
introduced in 1972
BGPC 1.9
potent, ethereal odour, non-flammable
central stimulant effects (may cause seizures)
Isoflurane
introduced in 1981
BCPC 1.4
pungent odour, non-flammable
moderate myocardial depression, marked vasodilatation, reflex
tachycardia
coronary steal
Sevoflurane
introduced around 1994, used in Japan since 1990
BGPC 0.69
potent, non-flammable
fruity odour
minimal airway irritability
less effect on heart rate cf to isoflurane, no coronary steal
Compound A breakdown product
Desflurane
used since 1992
BGPC 0.45
pungent odour, significant airway irritability
low potency
rapid onset
special heated vapouriser
Nitrous oxide
isolated by Priestly in 1772
BGPC 0.47
sweet odour
diffuses 34 times faster than nitrogen
bone marrow suppression
cause nausea and vomiting
cardiac depression
poynting effect - (???) separation of N2O and O2 in entonoux