Sevoflurane
Indications
Sevoflurane is an inhaled general anaesthetic. It is used to start (induce) and keep up (maintain) general anaesthesia during surgery in adults and children.
How It Works
Sevoflurane is a volatile liquid that turns into a vapour and is breathed in through a mask or breathing tube. It acts on nerve receptors in the brain and spinal cord to cause loss of consciousness, lack of pain awareness and muscle relaxation. It has a pleasant smell and works and wears off quickly, which makes it suitable for mask induction in children.
Dosage and Administration
Sevoflurane is given only by an anaesthetist (anaesthesia doctor) using a calibrated vaporiser in an operating theatre. The concentration is adjusted continuously according to age, the type of surgery and the patient's response, while breathing, heart rate and blood pressure are monitored.
Interactions
- Opioids, Benzodiazepines, Nitrous Oxide and other anaesthetics reduce the amount needed.
- It strengthens the effect of muscle relaxants used during surgery.
- Adrenaline and some heart medicines may affect heart rhythm.
- Tell the anaesthetist about all medicines, including Isoniazid, herbal products and recreational drugs.
Contraindications
- Known or suspected susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia (a rare inherited reaction to anaesthetics), personally or in the family.
- Previous liver problems or unexplained fever after a halogenated anaesthetic.
- Situations where general anaesthesia is not appropriate.
Side Effects
Common effects include low blood pressure, slow or fast heartbeat, nausea and vomiting after waking, cough, shivering, drowsiness and, especially in children, agitation or restlessness when waking up.
Medical staff watch for and treat serious effects straight away. After discharge, get urgent medical help if you have high fever, yellow skin or eyes, breathing difficulty, chest pain, severe confusion or seizures.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It may be used in pregnancy and for caesarean section when needed; the anaesthetist weighs benefits and risks. It relaxes the womb, which can increase bleeding at delivery. Only small amounts remain in the body after anaesthesia; breastfeeding can usually resume once the mother is awake and alert, as advised by the doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
- Tell the team about personal or family problems with anaesthesia, muscle disease, heart rhythm problems (long QT), kidney disease or raised pressure in the brain.
- Do not drive, operate machinery or make important decisions for at least 24 hours after anaesthesia.
- Follow fasting instructions before surgery.
Overdose
Too much can cause very low blood pressure, slow breathing and heart problems. Because it is given under constant monitoring, the anaesthetist stops it and supports breathing and circulation.
Therapeutic Class
General anaesthetic, inhaled (volatile halogenated ether).
Storage
Hospital medicine: store as directed on the pack, usually below 30°C with the bottle tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Sevoflurane