Metabolism of Volatile Anesthetics

Abstract

Evidence has accumulated to the effect that the volatile anesthetics are biodegradable. Direct evidence was shown for the most popular and potent anesthetics, diethyl ether, chloroform, halo-thane and methoxyflurane. Indirect evidence for the biotransformation of other less potent anesthetics can be shown. This information offers a fresh approach to certain questions concerning the action of anesthetics and the toxicity of the anesthetics. This will place the anesthetics in a position to be studied as chemical reactants rather than as physical inhibitors and offer a more positive approach to the study of their mechanism of action.