Anesthesia, maintenance: Note: The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), the concentration at which 50% of patients do not respond to surgical incision, varies by age. Desflurane MAC decreases with increasing age; dosage must be individualized based on patient response; desflurane MAC may also be decreased with concomitant nitrous oxide administration.
Term neonates: Inhaled MAC of 9.2% was reported in PNA 2 weeks of age.
Anesthesia, maintenance: Note: The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), the concentration at which 50% of patients do not respond to surgical incision, varies by age. Desflurane MAC decreases with increasing age; dosage must be individualized based on patient response; desflurane MAC may also be decreased with concomitant nitrous oxide administration.
Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Inhaled concentrations of ~7% to 10% and lower concentrations with nitrous oxide (4% to 7.5%).
Patient Age and Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) | ||
---|---|---|
Age |
MAC with 100% Oxygen |
MAC with 60% N2O/40% Oxygen |
Note: Should only be administered with vaporizer specifically designed for desflurane. | ||
10 weeks |
9.4% ± 0.4% |
|
9 months |
10% ± 0.7% |
7.5% ± 0.8% |
2 years |
9.1% ± 0.6% |
|
3 years |
6.4% ± 0.4% | |
4 years |
8.6% ± 0.6% |
|
7 years |
8.1% ± 0.6% |
|
25 years |
7.3% |
4% ± 0.3% |
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
No dosage adjustment necessary.
No dosage adjustment necessary.
(For additional information see "Desflurane: Drug information")
Note: Dosage must be individualized based on patient response.
Anesthesia, induction: Initial: Inhaled concentration of 3%, increased by 0.5% to 1% increments every 2 to 3 breaths (end tidal concentrations 4% to 11%). Inspired concentrations >12% have been safely administered during induction and may require a reduction of nitrous oxide or air.
Anesthesia, maintenance: Inhaled concentrations of 2.5% to 8.5% with or without concomitant nitrous oxide.
Mini mum alveolar concentration values:
The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), the concentration at which 50% of patients do not respond to surgical incision, varies by age. In adults, the concentration at which amnesia and loss of awareness occur (MAC - awake) is 2.4%. Surgical levels of anesthesia are maintained between 2.5% to 8.5%.
Patient Age and Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) | ||
---|---|---|
Age |
MAC with 100% Oxygen |
MAC with 60% N2O/40% Oxygen |
25 y |
7.3% |
4% |
45 y |
6% |
2.8% |
70 y |
5.2% |
1.7% |
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult Drug Interactions database for more information.
No dosage adjustment necessary.
No dosage adjustment necessary.
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
>10%:
Gastrointestinal: Nausea (27%), vomiting (16%)
Respiratory: Apnea (15%), breath-holding (30%), cough (34%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Atrioventricular nodal arrhythmia, bradycardia, hypertension (including malignant hypertension), oxygen saturation decreased (3% to 10%), tachycardia
Gastrointestinal: Sialorrhea
Ophthalmic: Conjunctivitis
Nervous system: Headache
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Laryngospasm (3% to 10%)
Respiratory: Increased bronchial secretions (3% to 10%), increased cough (3% to 10%), pharyngitis
<1%, postmarketing, and/or case reports: Abdominal pain, acute myocardial infarction, acute pancreatitis, agitation (children; postoperative), asthenia, asthma, atrial fibrillation, bigeminy, blood coagulation test abnormality, bronchospasm, cardiac arrhythmia, cholestasis, disorder of hemostatic components of blood, dizziness, dyspnea, ECG abnormality, erythema of skin, fever, hemoptysis, hemorrhage, hepatic disease, hepatic failure, hepatic necrosis, hepatitis (including cytolytic hepatitis), hepatotoxicity (Chalasani 2021; Chung 2003; Cote 2007), hyperammonemia, hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, hypotension, hypoxia, increased creatinine phosphokinase in blood specimen, increased serum alanine aminotransferase, increased serum aspartate aminotransferase, increased serum bilirubin, increased serum transaminases, increased ST segment on ECG, inversion T wave on ECG, ischemic heart disease, jaundice, malaise, malignant hyperthermia, metabolic acidosis, myalgia, prolonged QT interval on ECG, pruritus, respiratory distress, respiratory failure, rhabdomyolysis, scleral icterus, seizure, shock, torsades de pointes, urticaria, vasodilation, ventricular conduction abnormalities, ventricular dysfunction
Hypersensitivity to desflurane, other halogenated agents, or any component of the formulation; known or suspected genetic susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia; patients in whom general anesthesia is contraindicated; induction of anesthesia in pediatric patients; history of moderate to severe hepatic impairment following anesthesia with desflurane or other halogenated agents and not otherwise explained.
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): History of hepatitis due to a halogenated inhalational anesthetic or in whom hepatic dysfunction, jaundice or unexplained fever, leukocytosis, or eosinophilia has occurred after previous halogenated anesthetic administration.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Decreased blood flow: May cause decrease in hepatic and/or renal blood flow.
• Hepatitis: May cause sensitivity hepatitis in patients who have been sensitized by previous exposure to halogenated anesthetics.
• Hyperkalemia: Use of inhaled anesthetics has been associated with rare cases of perioperative hyperkalemia (including fatalities) in pediatric patients; concomitant use of succinylcholine was associated with many of the reported cases, but not all. Risk of hyperkalemia is increased in patients with underlying neuromuscular disease (eg, Duchenne muscular dystrophy). Other abnormalities may include elevation in CK and myoglobinuria. Monitor closely for arrhythmias. Aggressively identify and treat hyperkalemia.
• Increased intracranial pressure: May dilate the cerebral vasculature and may, in certain conditions, increase intracranial pressure. In patients with intracranial space-occupying lesions, administer at ≤0.8 MAC in conjunction with a barbiturate induction and hyperventilation in the period before cranial decompression; maintain cerebral perfusion pressure.
• Malignant hyperthermia: May trigger malignant hyperthermia; some reported cases have been fatal. Risk may be increased with concomitant administration of succinylcholine and volatile anesthetic agents and patients with genetic factors or family history of malignant hyperthermia, including ryanodine receptor or dihydropyridine receptor inherited variants. Signs of malignant hyperthermia may include arrhythmias, cyanosis, hemodynamic instability, hypercapnia, hyperthermia, hypovolemia, hypoxia, muscle rigidity, tachycardia, and tachypnea; coagulopathies, renal failure, and skin mottling may also occur. If malignant hyperthermia is suspected, discontinue triggering agents and institute appropriate therapy (eg, dantrolene) and other supportive measures.
• QT prolongation: Cases of QT prolongation in association with torsade de pointes (some fatal) have been reported with inhaled anesthetic agents; use caution when administering to patients at risk of QT prolongation (eg, concurrent use of drugs that can prolong the QT interval, such as class Ia and III antiarrhythmic drugs, elderly patients, congenital QT prolongation) (Han 2010; Kang 2006; Nakao 2010).
• Respiratory depression: Causes dose-dependent respiratory depression and blunted ventilatory response to hypoxia and hypercapnia. Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction is blunted which may lead to increased pulmonary shunt. May produce elevated carbon monoxide levels and carboxyhemoglobin in the presence of a desiccated dry carbon dioxide absorbent within the circle breathing system of an anesthetic machine; barium hydroxide and soda lime desiccation have been reported when fresh gasses are passed over a carbon dioxide canister at high flow rates over many hours or days. Maintain fresh absorbent as per manufacturer guidelines regardless of state of colorimetric indicator.
Disease-related concerns:
• Cardiovascular disease: Do not use as a single agent to induce anesthesia in patients with CAD or in whom an increase in heart rate or blood pressure should be avoided. Abrupt increases in inspired concentrations >1 MAC can produce a transient increase in blood pressure and heart rate due to increased plasma catecholamine levels. Acute, rapid increases in desflurane concentration can produce increased sympathetic cardiovascular stimulation which lasts for 2 to 4 minutes; can be blunted by concurrent use of nitrous oxide, opioids, beta-blockers, and alpha-2 agonists (Weiskopf 1994). Hypotensive effect due to peripheral vasodilation is dose dependent and increases as anesthesia is deepened. In a scientific statement from the American Heart Association, desflurane has been determined to be an agent that may exacerbate underlying myocardial dysfunction (magnitude: major) (AHA [Page 2016]).
• Hepatic disease: Due to the risk of hepatitis with halogenated anesthetics, use in patients with cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, or other preexisting hepatic disease should be approached with caution; disruption of hepatic function, icterus, and fatal liver necrosis have been reported and may indicate hypersensitivity. Consider the use of an anesthetic other than a halogenated anesthetic.
Special populations:
• Pediatric: Postoperative agitation may occur in children while emerging from anesthesia. Contraindicated for induction of general anesthesia in pediatric patients due to the higher incidence of moderate to severe upper airway adverse events (eg, laryngospasm, coughing, breath-holding, increased secretions). Do not use to maintain anesthesia in nonintubated pediatric patients due to a high incidence of moderate to severe upper airway adverse events. Use with caution when used to maintain anesthesia in children ≤6 years when a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is in place due to the increased potential for adverse respiratory effects especially with removal of the LMA under deep anesthesia. Use with caution in children with asthma or recent upper respiratory infection; increased risk for airway narrowing and increased airway resistance.
• Pediatric neurotoxicity: In pediatric and neonatal patients <3 years and patients in third trimester of pregnancy (ie, times of rapid brain growth and synaptogenesis), the repeated or lengthy exposure to sedatives or anesthetics during surgery/procedures may have detrimental effects on child or fetal brain development and may contribute to various cognitive and behavioral problems. Epidemiological studies in humans have reported various cognitive and behavioral problems including neurodevelopmental delay (and related diagnoses), learning disabilities, and ADHD. Human clinical data suggest that single, relatively short exposures are not likely to have similar negative effects. No specific anesthetic/sedative has been found to be safer. For elective procedures, risk vs benefits should be evaluated and discussed with parents/caregivers/patients; critical surgeries should not be delayed (FDA 2016).
Special handling:
• Occupational caution: Although there are no documented adverse effects of chronic occupational exposure to halogenated anesthetic vapors, like desflurane, some epidemiological studies suggest a link between these anesthetics and increased health problems (particularly spontaneous abortion). There is no specific work exposure limit established for desflurane. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has recommended that workers should not be exposed to ceiling concentrations greater than 2 ppm of any halogenated anesthetic agent over a period ≤1 hour. The predicted effects of acute overexposure by inhalation of desflurane include headache, dizziness, or (in extreme cases) unconsciousness. Precautions (eg, adequate ventilation, scavenging-systems, minimizing leaks/spills) can help to lessen any potential risk.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Monitoring: Transient elevations in white blood cell count and glucose may occur.
• Vaporizer use: Yellow discoloration of desflurane has been observed through the vaporizer sight glass or after draining the vaporizer; quality or efficacy of desflurane is not altered in these situations. Refer to the vaporizer Instructions For Use or contact manufacturer for recommended actions.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Solution, Inhalation:
Suprane: (240 mL); 100% (240 mL)
Generic: (240 mL)
Yes
Desflurane has the lowest fat-to-blood solubility of the inhaled anesthetics (ie, desflurane, enflurane, isoflurane, sevoflurane).
Inhalation: Administer via desflurane-specific calibrated heated vaporizer.
Inhalation: Via desflurane-specific calibrated heated vaporizer
Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
For maintenance of anesthesia for inpatient and outpatient surgery following induction with other agents and tracheal intubation (FDA approved in pediatric patients [age not specified]); for induction of anesthesia for inpatient and outpatient surgery and maintenance of anesthesia (FDA approved in adults).
Desflurane may be confused with Desferal
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drug classes (anesthetic agent, general, inhaled and IV) which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error (High-Alert Medications in Acute Care Settings).
None known.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program
Acrivastine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk C: Monitor
Acrivastine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor
Alfuzosin: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Alizapride: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Amifostine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Amifostine. Management: When used at chemotherapy doses, hold blood pressure lowering medications for 24 hours before amifostine administration. If blood pressure lowering therapy cannot be held, do not administer amifostine. Use caution with radiotherapy doses of amifostine. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Amisulpride (Oral): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Amisulpride (Oral): May increase hypotensive effects of Hypotension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Amisulpride (Oral): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Risk C: Monitor
Amphetamines: May increase hypotensive effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk C: Monitor
Antipsychotic Agents (Second Generation [Atypical]): Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Antipsychotic Agents (Second Generation [Atypical]). Risk C: Monitor
Arginine: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Articaine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider reducing the dose of articaine if possible when used in patients who are also receiving CNS depressants. Monitor for excessive CNS depressant effects with any combined use. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Azelastine (Nasal): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Bambuterol: May increase arrhythmogenic effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Management: Some labels recommend specifically avoiding halothane; others recommend separating administration by at least 6 hours; other bambuterol labels do not mention this possible interaction. Monitor for increased sensitivity to arrhythmias if coadministered. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Barbiturates: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Benperidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Benperidol: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Blonanserin: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Blonanserin. Management: Use caution if coadministering blonanserin and CNS depressants; dose reduction of the other CNS depressant may be required. Strong CNS depressants should not be coadministered with blonanserin. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Blood Pressure Lowering Agents: May increase hypotensive effects of Hypotension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Brexanolone: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Brexanolone. Risk C: Monitor
Brimonidine (Topical): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Brimonidine (Topical): May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Bromopride: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Bromperidol: May decrease hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Bromperidol. Risk X: Avoid
Bromperidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Buclizine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Buprenorphine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Buprenorphine. Management: Consider reduced doses of other CNS depressants, and avoiding such drugs in patients at high risk of buprenorphine overuse/self-injection. Initiate buprenorphine at lower doses in patients already receiving CNS depressants. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
BusPIRone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Calcium Channel Blockers: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase hypotensive effects of Calcium Channel Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Cannabinoid-Containing Products: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Cannabinoid-Containing Products. Risk C: Monitor
Cetirizine (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor for excessive sedation or CNS depression, limit the dose and duration of combination therapy, and consider CNS depressant dose reductions. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chloral Hydrate/Chloral Betaine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Chloral Hydrate/Chloral Betaine. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of chloral hydrate or chloral betaine and additional CNS depressants. If combined, consider a dose reduction of either agent and monitor closely for enhanced CNS depressive effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chlormethiazole: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Monitor closely for evidence of excessive CNS depression. The chlormethiazole labeling states that an appropriately reduced dose should be used if such a combination must be used. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chlorphenesin Carbamate: May increase adverse/toxic effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
CNS Depressants: May increase adverse/toxic effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Dabrafenib: QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Dabrafenib. Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
Dantrolene: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Daridorexant: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Dose reduction of daridorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of daridorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of daridorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
DexmedeTOMIDine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of DexmedeTOMIDine. Management: Monitor for increased CNS depression during coadministration of dexmedetomidine and CNS depressants, and consider dose reductions of either agent to avoid excessive CNS depression. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Dexmethylphenidate-Methylphenidate: May increase hypertensive effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Management: Avoid the use of dexmethylphenidate/methylphenidate on the day of a planned surgery with an inhalational anesthetic. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Diazoxide: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Difelikefalin: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Difenoxin: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Dihydralazine: CNS Depressants may increase hypotensive effects of Dihydralazine. Risk C: Monitor
Dimethindene (Topical): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Domperidone: QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Domperidone. Risk X: Avoid
DOPamine: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of DOPamine. Risk C: Monitor
Dothiepin: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Doxylamine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Doxylamine. Risk C: Monitor
DroPERidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider dose reductions of droperidol or of other CNS agents (eg, opioids, barbiturates) with concomitant use. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
DroPERidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). DroPERidol may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Consider dose reductions and monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
DULoxetine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of DULoxetine. Risk C: Monitor
Emedastine (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor for excessive sedation or CNS depression, limit the dose and duration of combination therapy, and consider CNS depressant dose reductions. Risk C: Monitor
Entacapone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Ephedra: May increase arrhythmogenic effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk X: Avoid
EPHEDrine (Nasal): May increase arrhythmogenic effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk X: Avoid
EPINEPHrine (Nasal): Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of EPINEPHrine (Nasal). Risk C: Monitor
EPINEPHrine (Oral Inhalation): Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of EPINEPHrine (Oral Inhalation). Risk C: Monitor
EPINEPHrine (Systemic): Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of EPINEPHrine (Systemic). Management: Administer epinephrine with added caution in patients receiving, or who have recently received, inhalational anesthetics. Use lower than normal doses of epinephrine and monitor for the development of cardiac arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Esketamine (Injection): May increase sedative effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk C: Monitor
Esketamine (Nasal): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Fenfluramine: May increase hypotensive effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk C: Monitor
Fenoterol: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Fenoterol. Risk C: Monitor
Flunarizine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Flunarizine. Risk X: Avoid
Flunitrazepam: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Flunitrazepam. Management: Reduce the dose of CNS depressants when combined with flunitrazepam and monitor patients for evidence of CNS depression (eg, sedation, respiratory depression). Use non-CNS depressant alternatives when available. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Fluorouracil Products: QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Fluorouracil Products. Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
Haloperidol: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
Herbal Products with Blood Pressure Lowering Effects: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
HydrOXYzine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider a decrease in the CNS depressant dose, as appropriate, when used together with hydroxyzine. Increase monitoring of signs/symptoms of CNS depression in any patient receiving hydroxyzine together with another CNS depressant. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Hypotension-Associated Agents: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Hypotension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Iloperidone: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Isocarboxazid: May increase hypotensive effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk X: Avoid
Isoproterenol: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Isoproterenol. Risk X: Avoid
Ixabepilone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Kava Kava: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Ketotifen (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Kratom: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Lemborexant: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Dosage adjustments of lemborexant and of concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary when administered together because of potentially additive CNS depressant effects. Close monitoring for CNS depressant effects is necessary. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Levocetirizine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Levodopa-Foslevodopa: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Levodopa-Foslevodopa. Risk C: Monitor
Levoketoconazole: QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Levoketoconazole. Risk X: Avoid
Lisuride: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Lofepramine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Lofexidine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Lormetazepam: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Loxapine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Loxapine. Management: Consider reducing the dose of CNS depressants administered concomitantly with loxapine due to an increased risk of respiratory depression, sedation, hypotension, and syncope. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Magnesium Sulfate: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Melitracen [INT]: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Mequitazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Metaraminol: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Metaraminol. Risk X: Avoid
Metergoline: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase orthostatic hypotensive effects of Metergoline. Risk C: Monitor
Metergoline: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Methadone: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase CNS depressant effects of Methadone. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation, ventricular arrhythmias, sedation, and respiratory depression. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Methotrimeprazine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Methotrimeprazine. Methotrimeprazine may increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Reduce the usual dose of CNS depressants by 50% if starting methotrimeprazine until the dose of methotrimeprazine is stable. Monitor patient closely for evidence of CNS depression. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Methoxyflurane: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Metoclopramide: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
MetyroSINE: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of MetyroSINE. Risk C: Monitor
Minocycline (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Molsidomine: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Moxonidine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Nabilone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Naftopidil: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Nalfurafine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing): Inhalational Anesthetics may increase neuromuscular-blocking effects of Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing). Management: When initiating a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA) in a patient receiving an inhalational anesthetic, initial NMBA doses should be reduced 15% to 25% and doses of continuous infusions should be reduced 30% to 60%. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Nicergoline: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Nicorandil: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Nitroprusside: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Nitroprusside. Risk C: Monitor
Norepinephrine: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Norepinephrine. Risk C: Monitor
Noscapine: CNS Depressants may increase adverse/toxic effects of Noscapine. Risk X: Avoid
Obinutuzumab: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Management: Consider temporarily withholding blood pressure lowering medications beginning 12 hours prior to obinutuzumab infusion and continuing until 1 hour after the end of the infusion. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Olopatadine (Nasal): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Ondansetron: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
Opicapone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Opioid Agonists: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid concomitant use of opioid agonists and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Opipramol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Orphenadrine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Orphenadrine. Risk X: Avoid
Oxomemazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Oxybate Salt Products: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Oxybate Salt Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination when possible. If combined, dose reduction or discontinuation of one or more CNS depressants (including the oxybate salt product) should be considered. Interrupt oxybate salt treatment during short-term opioid use Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
OxyCODONE: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of OxyCODONE. Management: Avoid concomitant use of oxycodone and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Paliperidone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Paraldehyde: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Paraldehyde. Risk X: Avoid
Pentamidine (Systemic): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
Pentoxifylline: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Perampanel: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Periciazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Phenylephrine (Ophthalmic): May increase adverse/toxic effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Specifically, the cardiovascular depressant effects of inhalational anesthetics may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Pholcodine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Pholcodine. Risk C: Monitor
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Pimozide: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Risk X: Avoid
Pipamperone: May increase adverse/toxic effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Piperaquine: QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Piperaquine. Risk X: Avoid
Piribedil: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Piribedil. Risk C: Monitor
Pizotifen: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Pramipexole: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor
Procarbazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Prostacyclin Analogues: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk): QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
QT-prolonging Antidepressants (Moderate Risk): QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Antidepressants (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Antipsychotics (Moderate Risk): QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Antipsychotics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Class IC Antiarrhythmics (Moderate Risk): QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Class IC Antiarrhythmics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk): May increase hypotensive effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for hypotension and QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Moderate Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Quinolone Antibiotics (Moderate Risk): QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Quinolone Antibiotics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor
Quinagolide: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Reproterol: Inhalational Anesthetics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Reproterol. Risk C: Monitor
Rilmenidine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Ritodrine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk C: Monitor
Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b: CNS Depressants may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b. Specifically, the risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects may be increased. Management: Avoid coadministration of ropeginterferon alfa-2b and other CNS depressants. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for neuropsychiatric adverse effects (eg, depression, suicidal ideation, aggression, mania). Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
ROPINIRole: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of ROPINIRole. Risk C: Monitor
Rotigotine: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of Rotigotine. Risk C: Monitor
Sertindole: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Risk X: Avoid
Silodosin: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Succinylcholine: Desflurane may increase neuromuscular-blocking effects of Succinylcholine. Risk C: Monitor
Suvorexant: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Suvorexant. Management: Dose reduction of suvorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of suvorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of suvorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Thalidomide: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Thalidomide. Risk X: Avoid
Thioridazine: QT-prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid
Trimeprazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Valerian: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Zolpidem: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Zolpidem. Management: Reduce the Intermezzo brand sublingual zolpidem adult dose to 1.75 mg for men who are also receiving other CNS depressants. No such dose change is recommended for women. Avoid use with other CNS depressants at bedtime; avoid use with alcohol. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Zuranolone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of zuranolone with other CNS depressants or alcohol. If combined, consider a zuranolone dose reduction and monitor patients closely for increased CNS depressant effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Based on animal data, repeated or prolonged use of general anesthetic and sedation medications that block N-methyl-D- aspartate (NMDA) receptors and/or potentiate gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity, may affect brain development. Evaluate benefits and potential risks of fetal exposure to desflurane when duration of surgery is expected to be >3 hours (Olutoye 2018).
Use of desflurane in obstetric anesthesia has been described (Boat 2010; Karaman 2006; Patel 1995). However, other agents are more commonly used (ACOG 209 2019; Devroe 2015). Maternal exposure should be minimized due to dose dependent uterine relaxation and fetal depression (Devroe 2015).
The ACOG recommends that pregnant women should not be denied medically necessary surgery, regardless of trimester. If the procedure is elective, it should be delayed until after delivery (ACOG 775 2019).
Blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm, temperature, oxygen saturation, end-tidal CO2 and end-tidal desflurane concentrations should be monitored prior to and throughout anesthesia; adverse respiratory symptoms (eg, coughing, laryngospasm) in pediatric patients (≤6 years); signs and symptoms of airway narrowing in children with asthma or recent upper respiratory infection.
Although not completely defined, it is thought that desflurane enhances inhibitory postsynaptic channel activity and inhibits excitatory synaptic activity resulting in general anesthesia.
Onset of action: 1 to 2 minutes
Duration: Emergence time: Depends on blood concentration when desflurane is discontinued
The rate of change of anesthetic concentration in the lung is more rapid with desflurane because of its low blood/gas solubility (0.42), which is similar to nitrous oxide.
Metabolism: Hepatic (0.02%) to trifluoroacetate (negligible) and inorganic fluoride
Excretion: Exhaled gases