Description

Increased risk of ventricular dysrhythmias with epinephrine. Increased risk of malignant hyperthermia with suxamethonium. Prolonged recovery from anaesth with concurrent use of ketamine for induction. May potentiate response to non-depolarising muscle relaxants, hypotensive agents (e.g. hexamethonium bromide, trimetaphan camsilate).

Post-op nausea, vomiting, and shivering; resp depression, hypotension, skeletal muscle relaxation, bradycardia.

Category C: Although the data from experimental investigations in animals cannot be directly related to man, it would be prudent to avoid general anaesthesia with inhalation agents during early pregnancy, except where such use is essential. Lactation: There are no well controlled studies with Halothane in lactating women. Halothane has been detected in breast milk of lactating women, but the effect of Halothane on breast feed neonates has not been established. However, Halothane has been in wide use for over 30 years without apparent ill consequence

Caution should be exercised during administration of adrenaline to patients anaesthetised with Halothane as dysrhythmias may be precipitated. For this reason the dose of adrenaline should be restricted and beta-receptor antagonists administered if necessary. Ensure adequate room ventilation when Halothane is being used. Keep the concentration of Halothane in air as low as possible. Effect on ability to drive or operate machinery: Patients should be advised that performance at skilled tasks, such as driving and operating machinery, may be impaired for some time after general anaesthesia. Accidental ingestion: Cases of ingestion must be treated symptomatically.

General (Inhalation) anesthetics

Bottles of Halothane must be securely closed and stored in a cool dry place, protected from light. Halothane must be kept in the original container until immediately prior to its use. Whilst in the liquid phase, Halothane must not be diluted or contaminated; however, in the vapour phase it may be administered together with Oxygen or a mixture of Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen.