Adverse effects of the volatile anaesthetics

Abstract

The volatile anaesthetics are associated with a wide range of adverse effects. Alterations in cardiorespiratory function caused by the volatile anaesthetics can lead to undesirable effects. Specific anaesthetic agents have been associated with triggering emergence agitation in children and epileptiform activity. Concerns over nephrotoxicity due to metabolism of sevoflurane have proven unfounded. Hepatotoxicity occurs less frequently with the newer agents than with halothane but has still been reported. All modern agents can still trigger malignant hyperthermia.