Halothane Metabolism-Analysis and Toxicological Implications,

The document reports on the biodegradation of clinically used volatile anesthetics. Among the significant questions to be answered are the possible toxic effects produced by anesthetic metabolites on vital organ systems such as the liver and kidney. Another serious question is the development of a sensitization response to certain anesthetics in susceptible individuals. Although the responsible factors at present remain unidentified, it is conceivable that sensitization results from the combination of small molecules with large protein fractions to form antigenic molecules. Of further concern is the knowledge that certain commonly administered drugs stimulate the metabolism of anesthetics, and that the anesthetics themselves may stimulate the metabolism of other inhalation anesthetics, as well as that of simultaneously administered drugs.