Methoxyflurane

Methoxyflurane (C3undefinedH4undefinedCundefinedl2undefinedF2undefinedO) is an inhalational anaesthetic used in the 1960s, but withdrawn because of detrimental effects on the kidneys. This was due to fluoride ions being produced by its metabolism in the kidney. Its minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) is 0.2, hence it is extremely potent. It has a high lipid solubility (oil:gas coefficient around 950) giving it a very slow onset/offset, thus undesirable for anesthetic purposes.

Methoxyflurane is used extensively in Australian ambulance services, and in St John Ambulance as an emergency analgesic.