Halothane

Introduction: Halothane is a general anaesthetic used in major surgical procedures. It allows the procedures to be carried out without pain and distress. This medicine is used in a hospital setting only.

How it works: Halothane is a potent non-flammable inhalational anaesthetic which depresses both cerebral function and sympathetic activity. It suppresses salivary, bronchial and gastric secretions and dilates the bronchioles.

Important Information: This medicine is administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory function is required during anaesthesia.

• General Anaesthesia: suitable for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia for all types of surgery and in patients of all ages

General (Inhalation) anesthetics

Inhalational Anaesthetic

When inhaled, Halothane is absorbed through the alveoli into the bloodstream. In the bloodstream, Halothane circulates through the body to the principal site of action, the brain. Here Halothane causes a progressive depression of the central nervous system, beginning with the higher centers (cerebral cortex) and spreading to the vital centers in the medulla. This depression is reversible. Approximately 80% of the inhaled Halothane is eliminated unchanged by the lungs. The remaining 20% is metabolized in the liver.

Halothane depresses the central nervous system to cause loss of consciousness, allowing surgical procedures to be carried out without pain.

Adult Dose (Inhalation):

• Induction: 2-4% v/v Halothane in Oxygen or Nitrous Oxide
• Maintenance: 0.5-2% v/v

Child Dose (Inhalation):

• Induction: 1.5-2% v/v
• Maintenance: 0.5-1.5% v/v

* Use as directed by the registered physician

Inhalation. Administered by doctor or anaesthetist. Given using specially designed anaesthetic vaporisers.

If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.

Common Side Effects:

• Shivering
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• High grade fever
• Decreased blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Bradycardia
• Respiratory depression

Precautions:

• Known or suspected susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia
• Raised CSF pressure
• History of unexplained jaundice or acute hepatic damage from previous exposure to halothane
• Do not drive or operate machinery for some time after anaesthesia
• Avoid use during early pregnancy

Contraindications:

• Known or suspected susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia
• Raised CSF pressure
• History of unexplained jaundice or acute hepatic damage from previous halothane exposure
• Children under 18 years undergoing outpatient dental surgery

Drug Interactions:

• Increased risk of ventricular dysrhythmias with epinephrine
• Increased risk of malignant hyperthermia with suxamethonium
• Prolonged recovery with ketamine
• May potentiate response to non-depolarising muscle relaxants

Food Interactions:

• Unsafe to consume alcohol with Halothane

Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects.

Use in Lactation: Safe during breastfeeding. Studies suggest the drug does not pass into breastmilk in significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.

Pediatric Use: Dosage available for children. Do not use in children under 18 years for outpatient dental surgery.

Geriatric Use: Lower concentration (0.5%) is usually most suitable for maintenance in elderly patients.

Renal & Hepatic Impairment: Halothane is metabolized in the liver - caution in liver disease. No known restrictions in kidney disease.

Overdose: Respiratory depression, hypotension, cardiac arrest may occur. Supportive ventilation and symptomatic treatment should be given.

Storage: Store in a cool dry place, protected from light. Keep in original container.

Halothane