Isoflurane
Brand names: Forane®
Isoflurane inhalation liquid
What is isoflurane inhalation liquid?
ISOFLURANE (Forane®) is used for general anesthesia during surgery and cesarean section. In addition to controlling pain and making you unconscious, general anesthesia control the body's reaction to stress and relieves fear and anxiety associated with surgery. You may receive more than one kind of anesthesia during your surgery or procedure. General anesthesia is commonly used for extensive and long surgeries, but also can be used in shorter and limited procedures. Generic isoflurane inhalation solution is available.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:• history of malignant hyperthermia
• myasthenia gravis
• an unusual or allergic reaction to isoflurane, or other anesthetics
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Isoflurane is given through inhalation (breathing the gas into the lungs) by trained anesthesia professionals in a controlled environment like an operating room before and during surgery or procedures. Since there is no one ideal general anesthetic, a combination of drugs that are either injected or inhaled are typically used.What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply.What drug(s) may interact with isoflurane?
• alcohol• amiodarone
• doxapram
• herbal products, including St. John's wort
• isoniazid, INH
• levodopa
• medicines for colds, breathing difficulties, or weight loss
• medicines for high blood pressure, including beta-blockers
• medicines that improve muscle strength or tone for conditions like myasthenia gravis
• medicines for seizures
• rifampin
• theophylline
• warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking isoflurane?
You will be closely monitored following anesthesia with isoflurane.Isoflurane can affect your ability to drive or do anything that needs mental alertness for about 24 hours after anesthesia. Do not attempt to drive yourself home if you have received isoflurane for minor outpatient surgery. You may not think clearly or notice changes in your mood for 2—3 days after receiving isoflurane.
You may feel dizzy and lightheaded. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit up or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you more drowsy or dizzy, avoid alcoholic drinks for at least 24 hours after you receive isoflurane.
What side effects may I notice from using isoflurane?
During your surgery or procedure the anesthesiologist will closely monitory all your body systems and treat any serious side effects. Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:• hallucinations
• high body temperature
• irregular heartbeat
• lightheadedness or fainting spells
• slow or difficult breathing
• yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• drowsiness
• headache
• muscle weakness
• nausea, vomiting
• shivering
• trembling
Where can I keep my medicine?
This does not apply as you only received general anesthetics in a hospital or clinic setting.Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
