ISOFLURANE
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you receive Isoflurane.
- Keep this leaflet as you may need to read it again.
- This leaflet provides a summary of the information currently available on Isoflurane.
- For further information or advice ask your ward doctor or anaesthetist.
- Tell your ward doctor or anaesthetist if you experience any side effects.
What is Isoflurane & what does it do?
Isoflurane belongs to a group of medicines called general anaesthetics. These work by temporarily reducing the activity of the body's central nervous system. This causes a complete loss of sensation in the body, including loss of consciousness allowing surgery to be carried out without pain or distress.
Isoflurane is a clear colourless liquid that when put into a special anaesthetic machine (vaporiser) becomes a gas. This mixes with the oxygen you will be breathing in.
Once breathed in (inhaled), Isoflurane will induce and maintain a deep, pain-free sleep (general anaesthesia) in adults and children.
What should you know before receiving Isoflurane?
TELL YOUR DOCTOR, SURGEON OR ANAESTHETIST if:
- You are currently taking any medicines.
- You have been told that you are allergic to Isoflurane or any other anaesthetic.
- You or any member of your family has experienced a rapid rise in body temperature during an operation (a condition called malignant hyperthermia).
- You have previously received general anaesthetics, particularly if repeated over a short period of time. Some anaesthetics
can cause jaundice. - You are suffering from any illness other than those connected with your operation, such as severe headaches, nausea, vomiting or a condition that affects muscles (a neuromuscular disease e.g. Duchenne muscular dystrophy).
- You are pregnant, could be pregnant or are breast feeding.
DRIVING & USING MACHINERY
You should NOT drive or operate machinery until your doctor advises that you may do so.
Your ability to drive or operate machinery may be impaired for some time.
How will you receive Isoflurane?
Isoflurane will ALWAYS be administered to you by an anaesthetist. They will decide on the dose you will receive, depending on your age, weight and the type of operation you are having.
Isoflurane has a strong smell, which is quite normal and will send you to sleep quickly.
Inducing sleep at the start of anaesthesia
Very occasionally you may be asked to breathe in the Isoflurane via a mask. Usually you will receive an injection of another anaesthetic to make you go to sleep before you receive Isoflurane.
Maintaining sleep during anaesthesia
Under the observation of the anaesthetist you will continue to breathe in Isoflurane during the operation via a mask.
Waking-up after anaesthesia
Once the anaesthetist stops you from inhaling Isoflurane you will wake up within a few minutes.
What will happen after receiving Isoflurane?
As with all anaesthetics, Isoflurane can cause side effects. These can occur both during and after your operation. Any side effects which may occur during your operation will be managed by your doctor, as necessary.
If you suffer from any unusual or unexpected symptoms after your operation tell your doctor or anaesthetist IMMEDIATELY.
SIDE EFFECTS AND THEIR FREQUENCIES where known:
During Anaesthesia:
Low blood pressure (hypotension), slow shallow breathing (respiratory depression), raised body temperature (malignant hyperthermia), palpitations or an irregular heart beat can occur.
Liver injury can occur and in very rare occasions this can be fatal. The potential for liver injury is increased if you have been previously exposed to this type of anaesthetic (halogenated hydrocarbon anaesthetic), especially if the interval is less than 3 months.
Levels of fluoride in the blood may be raised during and after anaesthesia, this is due to the body breaking down Isoflurane. These levels are not believed to be harmful and soon return to normal. An increase in the number of white blood cells has also been seen.
Dermatitis, rash, shortness of breath (dyspnoea), wheezing, chest discomfort, swelling face or severe allergic (anaphylactic) reaction have been reported rarely, especially in association with long-term exposure to inhaled anaesthetics, including Isoflurane.
After Anaesthesia:
On coming round you may experience shivering, nausea and vomiting.
How should Isoflurane be stored?
Isoflurane should be stored in a tightly closed container NOT above 25°C. Do NOT use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Further information about Isoflurane
Isoflurane ingredients:
The active ingredient is Isoflurane and it is supplied as a pure liquid containing no other ingredients.
Marketing Authorisation and Manufacturer's Details
Marketing Authorisation Holder:
Berkshire
Manufacturer:
This leaflet was last approved in 01/2010
1000000863
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