Different anesthetics have unique
solubilities in blood affecting induction
speed.
Low solubility leads to rapid induction (e.g.,
Blood/Gas Partition Coefficients nitrous oxide).
Widely used, stable, and low toxicity; not
used for inhalation induction due to High solubility results in slower induction
pungent odor. and recovery (e.g., halothane).
Isoflurane
Higher cardiac output removes anesthetic
Produces dose-dependent hypotension. Inhalation Anesthetics Overview from the alveoli more quickly, slowing
induction.
Fast onset and recovery; requires special
vaporization due to low volatility.
Low cardiac output allows quicker rise of
Desflurane Effects of Cardiac Output anesthetic concentration in the alveoli.
Irritating to the airway and not suitable for
inhalation inductions.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial
for managing anesthesia.
Pleasant odor and low pungency, making
it ideal for pediatric inhalation induction.
Other Inhalation Anesthetics
Sevoflurane
Rapid onset, but can be nephrotoxic at low Highly perfused tissues (e.g., brain, heart)
fresh gas flows. achieve steady state rapidly.
Non-irritating and potent analgesic; Poorly perfused tissues (e.g., skeletal
commonly used in dental procedures. muscles, fat) take longer to reach
Major Tissue Compartments equilibrium.
Rapidly diffuses, can cause pressure
changes in closed body compartments. Nitrous Oxide The volume and solubility of tissues
influence anesthetic storage capacity.
Can lead to diffusion hypoxia during
recovery; provides safety with concurrent Discontinuation of anesthetic leads to
Anesthetics
oxygen use. body acting as a source driving anesthetic
Tissue Uptake of Anesthetics back to alveoli.
The same factors that affect induction
Prototype inhalation anesthetic, apply to the clearance of anesthetics from
historically favored for rapid induction. Washout Process the body.
Strong bronchodilator; suitable in Example: Nitrous oxide exits faster than
obstetrics for uterine relaxation. Characteristics and Uses halothane.
Co-administered with nitrous oxide or
opioids for enhanced analgesia.
No specific receptor identified for
anesthetic action; focus on protein
Can cause liver toxicity and is associated
with rare but serious reactions. Halothane interactions.
General anesthetics enhance GABA
Bradycardia and cardiac arrhythmias are receptor sensitivity, prolonging inhibitory
potential risks during administration. Adverse Effects effects.
Interaction with Ion Channels
Mechanism of Action
Malignant hyperthermia risk in susceptible
patients; dantrolene used for treatment. Other receptors affected include glycine
receptors and nicotinic receptors.
