Halothane and Fluranes

Summary

Halothane and the Fluranes drugs are inhaled anesthetics used primarily for the maintenance of anesthesia. These drugs have high blood solubility, which makes then equilibrate slowly, which therefore gives them a slow onset of action and slow recovery.  Since they are highly lipid soluble, they are very potent, with a low minimum alveolar concentration or low MAC needed to exert anesthetic effects. Side effects to note include hepatotoxicity especially with halothane, as well as myocardial depression and respiratory depression. Increased cerebral blood flow can lead to increased intracranial pressure. Lastly, watch out for Malignant hyperthermia, which is a rare, life-threatening condition which presents with fever and extreme muscle rigidity.