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Halothane

Latest prescription information about Halothane. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Halothane
Pronunciation : HAL-o-thayne
Therapeutic Classification : Inhalational Anesthetics
ICD Code : Y48.0
Trade Name(s): 
India- Fluothane,Hypnothane.
International- Fluothane, Halothane.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is an inhalational general anesthetic, prescribed for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. It decreases abnormal excitement in the brain.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 
It is not recommended for obstetrical anesthesia except when uterine relaxation is required.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : 
Adult: Inhalation Induction- 2-4% v/v in O2 or mixtures of nitrous oxide and O2. Maintenance: 0.5-2% v/v depending on the flow rate used.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a solution for inhalation to be administered by a well-trained healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart, kidney, liver disease, during early pregnancy.
* Patient may develop with increased risk of malignant hyperthermia (life-threatening condition with very high temperature), and intracranial pressure; if it is so consult with your doctor immediately.
* Monitor liver function regularly while taking this medication.
Side Effects : 
Severe effects - Liver damage, heart arrest and abnormal increase in body temperature.
Miscellaneous - Low blood pressure, respiratory arrest, shivering, nausea and vomiting.
Other Precautions : 
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Store it at room temperature (25°C) in an airtight container. Protect from light.

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Member Comments ( 1 )
it is a wonderful drug in peripheral setup, where availability of other inhalational agents is not possible in india.
(Posted by ravinese, India Date : 3/7/2012 )

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Reference  

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • PubMed
  • CIMS
  • Indian Pharma Reference Guide 2012
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