isofluraan

Isoflurane is a volatile anesthetic agent used for the maintenance of general anesthesia. It is a non-flammable, non-explosive liquid that is administered by inhalation. Isoflurane is a halogenated ether and is colorless with a mild, pungent odor. It works by depressing the central nervous system, leading to unconsciousness, amnesia, and analgesia.

The mechanism of action of isoflurane, like other volatile anesthetics, is not fully understood but is thought to involve interactions with various ion channels and receptors in the brain, including GABA receptors and NMDA receptors. It is characterized by rapid induction and emergence, allowing for quick transitions into and out of anesthesia. Its potency is measured by the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), which is the concentration of the anesthetic in the alveoli required to prevent movement in 50% of subjects in response to a surgical stimulus.

Isoflurane is commonly used in veterinary medicine and has also been used in human medicine, although newer agents have become more prevalent. It is known for its cardiovascular effects, including a dose-dependent decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, and respiratory effects, such as dose-dependent depression of ventilation. It can also cause malignant hyperthermia in susceptible individuals. Despite its known effects, isoflurane remains a useful tool in anesthesia when administered and monitored appropriately.