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
- 1General Anaesthetics
Other Years Asked
- 1Classify general anaesthetics. Write the mechanism of action, uses and adverse effects
of Halothane. Enumerate four drugs used as pre-anaesthetic medication with its
rationale for use. Discuss the management of Morphine poisoning. (4+3+6+2)2024 June (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Essay · 15 marks
- 2Compare Inhalational and intravenous general anesthetics (4+4)2024 March (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Essay · 8 marks
- 3A middle aged man posted for Appendisectomy was given an injection by the ward
nurse before being shifted to the operation theatre. Patient developed dryness of
mouth, difficulty in swallowing and severe thirst.
What is the drug that was injected
Why the drug was given pre-operatively
What are the other drugs which are given pre-operatively (1+2+3)2020 February (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Essay · 6 marks
- 4Classify general anaesthetics - four groups with two examples. Add a brief note on pre anaesthetic
medication (4+2)2025 March (Supplementary (SAY)) (2019 Scheme)Short Essay · 6 marks
- 5Propofol.2023 January (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Answer · 4 marks
- 6Enumerate four objectives of preanesthetic medications along with the drugs used for
achieving the same.2024 December (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Answer · 4 marks
- 7Sevoflurane2014 March (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 8Halothane2022 May (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 9Pre-anaesthetic medication2022 October (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 10Propofol2018 February (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 11Propofol2017 February (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 12Propofol.2017 August (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 13Halothane2013 April (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 14Propofol2014 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 15Pre anesthetic medication2018 July (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
- 16Pre-anesthetic medication2014 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
- 17Intravenous general anesthetics2015 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
- 18Two intravenous and two inhalational anaesthetics2013 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
- 19Pre- anesthetic medication2017 August (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
- 20Ketamine2021 December (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
- 21Pre anaesthetic medications2024 March (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 0.3 marks
- 22General anaesthetics used for induction2022 July (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Answer · 0.2 marks