Althesin

Intravenous anesthetic agent

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Althesin

Drug Information
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Althesin is a general anesthetic that was used primarily for intravenous administration. It was introduced in the 1970s and was known for its rapid onset and short duration of action. Althesin is a mixture of two steroids, alphaxalone and alphadolone, which act on the central nervous system to produce anesthesia.

History

Althesin was developed in the early 1970s and was widely used in clinical anesthesia due to its favorable pharmacokinetic properties. However, its use declined after reports of adverse reactions, including anaphylaxis and hypotension. The drug was eventually withdrawn from the market in many countries.

Pharmacology

Althesin works by enhancing the activity of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor, which is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This action results in the depression of neuronal activity, leading to anesthesia.

Clinical Use

Althesin was used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia in various surgical procedures. Its rapid onset made it suitable for short procedures, while its short duration of action allowed for quick recovery.

Adverse Effects

The most significant adverse effects associated with Althesin were anaphylactic reactions and hypotension. These reactions led to its decline in use and eventual withdrawal from the market.

Related Pages

• General anesthetic
• Intravenous therapy
• Steroid
• Central nervous system
• Anaphylaxis
• Hypotension

See Also

• Anesthesia
• Pharmacokinetics
• GABA receptor