noun
- A volatile halogenated hydrocarbon compound used as a general anesthetic and analgesic in medical and dental procedures.
Usage: medical/pharmaceutical term; also known by brand name Penthrane; largely phased out in many countries due to nephrotoxicity concerns
Examples
- Methoxyflurane was commonly used as an inhalational anesthetic in the 1960s and 1970s.
- The anesthesiologist administered methoxyflurane to induce general anesthesia before surgery.
- Methoxyflurane's use declined after studies revealed potential kidney damage with prolonged exposure.
- Dental practitioners once relied on methoxyflurane for pain relief during tooth extractions.
- Modern anesthetics have largely replaced methoxyflurane in operating rooms worldwide.