Methoxyflurane

Question 1

What type of medication is Methoxyflurane

Answer 1

It is an inhaled analgesic.

Question 2

What is the action of Methoxyflurane?

Answer 2

It is a central nervous system depressant.

Question 3

What is the route of administration for Methoxyflurane, and what is the associated onset, peak and duration?

Answer 3

Route: INH
Onset: 2-3 min
Peak: N/A
Duration: Up to 30 min

Question 4

What use is Methoxyflurane indicated for?

Answer 4

Pain management:
Mild pain in children 1yr or older and >12yrs of age.
Patients 1yr or older where a paramedic is not authorised to administer an opioid is contraindicated, ineffective or refused.
Multiple victim situations and/or initial pain management in environments which may present with safety concerns to facilitate prompt patient movement.
Active Labour.

Question 5

What are the contraindications of Methoxyflurane?

Answer 5

Malignant hyperthermia
Untreated renal failure
Decreased LOC (V, P or U)
Concurrent tetracycline use
Acute behaviourally disturbed patients
Pre-eclampsia or eclampsia

Question 6

Can more than one 3ml dose of Methoxyflurane be put in the inhaler at any time?

Answer 6

No, only 3ml can be put in the inhaler at any one time as more increases the risk of droplet inhalation.

Question 7

Can oxygen be used in conjunction with the penthrox inhaler?

Answer 7

Oxygen can only be given concurrently with a Methoxyflurane inhaler via nasal prongs.

Question 8

How often can Methoxyflurane be administered during a shift?

Answer 8

Methoxyflurane can only be administered twice per paramedic per shift.

Question 9

How much Methoxyflurane can be administered in the back of an ambulance?

Answer 9

No more than 3ml may be administered in the back of an ambulance at any one time.

Question 10

What is the correct dose of Methoxyflurane for pain management?

Answer 10

For patients 1yr old or more, 3ml via an inhaler with one repeat max. The max dose for a patient is 6ml in 24hrs, and 15ml in 7 days.