Teflurane

Teflurane is a halogenated ether that was previously used for general anesthesia. It is a colorless, nonflammable liquid that has a sweet, ethereal odor. Teflurane was first synthesized in the 1960s and was introduced into clinical practice in the 1970s. However, it was withdrawn from the market in the 1980s due to its high rate of hepatotoxicity and its potential to cause malignant hyperthermia.

History

Teflurane was first synthesized in the 1960s by Janssen Pharmaceutica, a Belgian pharmaceutical company. It was introduced into clinical practice in the 1970s as a potential replacement for halothane, a commonly used anesthetic at the time. However, teflurane was found to have a high rate of hepatotoxicity, which led to its withdrawal from the market in the 1980s.

Pharmacology

Teflurane is a halogenated ether, which means it is a type of volatile anesthetic. It works by depressing the central nervous system, which results in a loss of consciousness and a lack of sensation. However, teflurane has a high rate of hepatotoxicity, which means it can cause damage to the liver. It is also known to trigger malignant hyperthermia, a potentially fatal reaction to certain drugs used during general anesthesia.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of teflurane include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It can also cause a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and respiratory depression. In rare cases, teflurane can cause malignant hyperthermia, a potentially fatal reaction that can occur during general anesthesia.

Current Use

Teflurane is no longer used in clinical practice due to its high rate of hepatotoxicity and its potential to cause malignant hyperthermia. However, it is still used in research settings to study the effects of halogenated ethers on the central nervous system.

See Also

• Halogenated ether
• General anesthesia
• Hepatotoxicity
• Malignant hyperthermia

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