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halothane

N01AB01

Forms & Strengths

Inhalation liquid: 250 mL bottles

Adult Dosing

Induction: 0.5% to 3% inspired concentration in oxygen or nitrous oxide-oxygen mixture
Maintenance: 0.5% to 1.5% inspired concentration
Dosing must be individualized based on patient age, clinical status, and response

Pediatric Dosing

Induction: 0.5% to 2% inspired concentration in oxygen or nitrous oxide-oxygen mixture
Maintenance: 0.5% to 1.5% inspired concentration
Children may require higher MAC than adults, but exhibit greater cardiovascular depression

Indications

Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia

Mechanism of Action

Inhaled general anesthetic that potentiates GABA-A and glycine receptors
Inhibits NMDA and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Produces unconsciousness, amnesia, and skeletal muscle relaxation

Contraindications

Known or suspected susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia
History of halothane-induced hepatitis or unexplained severe liver dysfunction following prior exposure
Obstetric anesthesia unless uterine relaxation is specifically required

Adverse Reactions

Halothane hepatitis (immune-mediated severe hepatic necrosis)
Malignant hyperthermia
Hypotension and dose-dependent respiratory depression
Bradycardia and arrhythmias (sensitizes myocardium to catecholamines)
Postoperative nausea and vomiting

Drug Interactions

Epinephrine and other sympathomimetics: increased risk of severe ventricular arrhythmias
Non-depolarizing and depolarizing neuromuscular blockers: potentiates muscle relaxation
Opioids and sedatives: synergistic central nervous system and respiratory depression
CYP2E1 inducers: may increase formation of hepatotoxic metabolites

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use