Paper I
2015 February (2010 Scheme) · 40 marks · 120 min

Question

Halothane

Q53 marksShort Notes

Answer

Halothane is a halogenated inhalational general anaesthetic.

Properties

  • Potent anaesthetic (low MAC), non-irritant, pleasant odour — smooth induction
  • Poor analgesic and poor muscle relaxant properties

Effects on organ systems

  • CVS: Myocardial depression, hypotension; sensitizes the myocardium to catecholamines → predisposes to cardiac arrhythmias
  • Respiratory: Depresses respiration; bronchodilator — useful in asthmatics
  • CNS: Increases cerebral blood flow and intracranial tension
  • Uterus: Relaxes uterine smooth muscle — risk of increased postpartum bleeding

Adverse effects

  • Hepatotoxicity — “halothane hepatitis” (immune-mediated, more with repeated exposure)
  • Malignant hyperthermia
  • Cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension
  • Postoperative shivering

Contraindications

  • Prior halothane hepatitis, liver disease, cardiac arrhythmias, raised intracranial tension

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