Isoflurane: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Isoflurane is an inhaled general anaesthetic. It is a prescription medicine used for general anaesthesia. In Pakistan it is available as injections and solution, made by 3 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Isoflurane works
Isoflurane is absorbed through the lungs into the blood and travels to the brain, where it dampens nerve signalling and causes a reversible loss of consciousness. Because it is breathed in and out, the anaesthetist can adjust its depth quickly, and patients wake up once it is switched off.
What is Isoflurane used for?
- General anaesthesia
Isoflurane is a volatile anaesthetic used to keep patients unconscious and unaware of pain during surgery and some procedures. It is breathed in through a mask or breathing tube from a specially calibrated vaporiser, usually after anaesthesia has been started with an injection. It is also sometimes used for sedation in intensive care. It is only ever given by anaesthetists in hospital.
Side effects of Isoflurane
Possible effects of Isoflurane, mostly noticed during or soon after surgery, include:
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting on waking
- Shivering
- Coughing or breath-holding as anaesthesia starts
- Drowsiness or confusion after waking
It is used only by anaesthetists with continuous monitoring, who manage any problems as they arise; rare but serious reactions include a dangerous rise in body temperature known as malignant hyperthermia.
Precautions and warnings
- It is given only in hospital or clinic settings by trained anaesthetists who monitor you throughout.
- Tell the anaesthetist if you or a blood relative have ever had a reaction to anaesthesia, such as malignant hyperthermia.
- Let the team know about allergies, all medicines you take, and any heart, liver, kidney, lung or muscle conditions.
- Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol or make important decisions for at least 24 hours after a general anaesthetic.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell the anaesthetist before your procedure.
Frequently asked questions about Isoflurane
What is the price of Isoflurane in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Isoflurane products currently in stock range from Rs 3,376 to Rs 9,237 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Restane 99.9% Solution at Rs 3,376. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Isoflurane are available in Pakistan?
Isoflurane is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Isoflurane (Akhai), Restane (Akhai), Flurane (Biocare) and Forane (Getz Pharma Ltd Pharma).Do I need a prescription for Isoflurane?
Yes. Isoflurane is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Isoflurane be used during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell the anaesthetist before your procedure.
Are all Isoflurane brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Isoflurane in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Isoflurane brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 5 products containing Isoflurane from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
