Halothane

Halothane (bromochlorotrifluoroethane), sold under the brand name Fluothane among others, is a halocarbon with the chemical formula CF3CHBrCl. It is used as a general anaesthetic given by inhalation. It can be used to induce or maintain anaesthesia. Its use in developed countries has been mostly replaced by newer anesthetic agents such as sevoflurane. One of its benefits is that it does not increase the production of saliva, which can be particularly useful in those who are difficult to intubate. Side effects include an irregular heartbeat, respiratory depression, and hepatotoxicity. Like all volatile anesthetics, it should not be used in people with a personal or family history of malignant hyperthermia. It appears to be safe in porphyria. It is unclear whether its usage during pregnancy is harmful to the fetus, and its use during a C-section is generally discouraged. Halothane is a chiral molecule that is used as a racemic mixture. Halothane was discovered in 1951. It was approved for medical use in the United States in 1958. It was removed from the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines in 2025 in favor of safer alternatives. It is not available in the United States. Halothane may contribute to ozone depletion.