Methoxyflurane

Question 1

Methoxyflurane - Contraindications (5)

Precautions (3)

Answer 1

Contraindications:

• renal disease / impairment
• concurrent use of tetracycline antibiotics
• exceeding 6ml in 24/24
• muscular dystrophy (may precipitate life threatening rhabdomyolysis)
• patient or family history of malignant hyperthermia (previous adverse reaction to inhaled anaesthetics)

Precautions:
# must be self-administered by patient in case unconsciousness occurs
# pre-eclampsia
# concurrent use with oxytocin may cause hypotension

Question 2

Methoxyflurane - Side Effects (3)

Answer 2

> drowsiness
decrease in BP and bradycardia (rare)
renal toxicity (if 6ml dose in 24/24 exceeded)

Question 3

Methoxyflurane - Actions

Answer 3

An inhalational anaesthetic agent used to provide pain relief.

Question 4

Methoxyflurane - Presentation

Answer 4

3ml in glass ampoule with penthrox inhaler

Question 5

Methoxyflurane - Onset and Duration

Answer 5

Inhalational effects:
- onset: 8-10 breaths
- duration: 3-5mins once discontinued
3ml provides approx 25mins effective pain relief