Drug reference
Moderate-to-severe pain associated with trauma (under close medical supervision) ▶BY INHALATION ▶Adult: 3–6 mL as required, avoid administration on consecutive days; administer using inhaler device; maximum 15 mL per week
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Cardiovascular disease. history of liver damage associated with use of methoxyflurane or other halogenated anaesthetics. impaired consciousness. respiratory depression. susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia
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Elderly—increased risk of hypotension. repeated administration more than once every 3 months— increased risk of hepatic injury. risk factors for hepatic impairment. risk factors for renal impairment
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Contra-indicated in patients with hypersensitivity to fluorinated anaesthetics.
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The manufacturer of Penthrox ® has provided an Administration Checklist and an Administration Guide for healthcare professionals. l HANDLING AND STORAGE Manufacturer advises exposure of healthcare professionals to methoxyflurane should be minimised—risk of serious side-effects.
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Manufacturer advises methoxyflurane should only be self-administered under the supervision of personnel experienced in its use, using a hand-held Penthrox ® inhaler device.
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→Appendix 1: volatile halogenated anaesthetics
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▶Common or very common Cough. dizziness. drowsiness. dry mouth. dysarthria. feeling abnormal. headache. hypotension. memory loss. mood altered. nausea. taste altered ▶Uncommon Anxiety. appetite increased. chills. depression. fatigue. flushing. hyperhidrosis. oral discomfort. paraesthesia. peripheral neuropathy. vision disorders ▶Frequency not known Choking. confusion. consciousness impaired. dissociation. hepatic disorders. hypoxia. nystagmus. renal failure. vomiting
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Manufacturer advises use with caution— limited information available.
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Manufacturer advises use with caution— limited information available.
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Manufacturer advises caution (risk of increased exposure).
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Manufacturer advises avoid.
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There can be variation in the licensing of different medicines containing the same drug. Inhalation vapour EXCIPIENTS: May contain Butylated hydroxytoluene ▶Penthrox (Galen Ltd) A Methoxyflurane 999 mg per 1 gram Penthrox inhalation vapour 3ml bottles with device | 1 bottle P £17.89 (Hospital only) ANALGESICS › NON-OPIOID
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Manufacturer advises that patients should be given advice on appropriate inhaler technique. A patient alert card should be provided. Driving and skilled tasks Manufacturer advises patients and carers should be counselled on the effects on driving and performance of skilled tasks—increased risk of dizziness and drowsiness.
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3–6 mL as required, avoid administration on
First-line fragment. Read the complete Indications and Dose section above.
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