Methoxyflurane

Question 1

Methoxyflurane - Mechanism of action

Answer 1

Inhaled analgesic.
Mechanism of action is unclear.
Metabolised in the liver.

Question 2

Methoxyflurane - Indications

Answer 2

Moderate to severe pain when fentanyl and ketamine are not available or inappropriate.

Question 3

Methoxyflurane - Contraindications

Answer 3

[SMURF]
Severe allergy.
Malignant Hyperthermia.
Unable to obey commands.
Renal impairement.
Fed methoxyflurane in past week.

Question 4

Methoxyflurane - Cautions

Answer 4

Age >=75 years, esp in presence of illness, infection or dehydration, as renal impairment is likely.
Pre-eclampsia, as renal impairment is likely in this setting.
Administration in a confined space.

Question 5

Methoxyflurane - Dosage

Answer 5

Maximum of 6 ml (2 doses) for age >=12 years.

Maximum of 3 ml (1 dose) for child under 12 years.

Question 6

Methoxyflurane - Common side effects

Answer 6

Sedation.

Light headedness.

Question 7

Methoxyflurane - Onset of effect

Answer 7

1 - 2 minutes.

Question 8

Methoxyflurane - Duration of effect

Answer 8

2 -5 minutes after stopping administration.

Question 9

Methoxyflurane - Preparation

Answer 9

3ml bottle with a plastic inhaler.

Question 10

Methoxyflurane - Repeats

Answer 10

For age >=12 years can be repeated once ( ie maximum 2 doses)