GasGasGas - The FRCA Primary Exam Podcast GasGasGas - Halothane
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Nov 28, 2025 Dive into the world of halothane, a game-changer in anaesthesia that replaced explosive agents of the past. Discover its intriguing chemistry and the hazards associated with its decomposition. Learn about halothane’s cardiovascular and respiratory effects, including arrhythmia risks and impacts on blood solubility. Unpack the potential for liver distress, distinguishing between various types of halothane hepatitis. This engaging discussion wraps up with crucial clinical implications for practice.
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Halothane Changed Theatre Practices
- Halothane's arrival ended the era of highly flammable anaesthetics and made smoking and static less concerning in theatres.
- The trade-off was increased awareness of postoperative liver injury after its introduction.
Halothane’s Key Physicochemical Profile
- Halothane is a halogenated hydrocarbon containing three fluorines, one bromine and one chlorine and is non-flammable.
- It is very potent (MAC 0.75%) with a high oil:gas solubility (220) making onset and offset slow.
High Solubility Means Slow Pharmacokinetics
- Halothane has a blood:gas solubility around 2.5, so it dissolves into blood much more than newer agents.
- Expect slower induction and slower recovery compared with agents like sevoflurane or desflurane.