If you or someone you know is going to have surgery, you may be a little scared or curious about "analgesia." It's actually a very safe procedure, performed under the supervision of a specialist. Different types of drugs are used to provide anesthesia (analgesia). Today, we're going to talk about a special drug that is inhaled into the body and helps to relieve pain and keep you healthy and safe.
What is Desflurane?
Simply put, Desflurane is a drug that comes in a liquid form, but when used, it is converted into a gas (vapour) by a special device and allowed to be inhaled. It is mainly used as an anesthetic. That is, it is given to make you unconscious and not feel any pain during surgery or a medical test. You may see this drug under the brand name Suprane.
This is not just a medicine given to the chin. It is given by an anesthetist in a controlled environment, such as a hospital operating room.
Things you need to tell your doctor before giving this medicine
This is very important for your safety. The anesthesiologist will ask you about these things before you have surgery. At that time, it is essential that you tell the truth without hiding anything .
| Do you have these conditions? | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| A family history of severe fever during anesthesia (Malignant Hyperthermia) | This is a very rare but potentially life-threatening severe reaction to anesthesia. If anyone in your family has had this, it's important to tell them. |
| A brain tumor or pressure on the head | Since these types of anesthetics can change brain pressure, the doctor should be aware of this. |
| Heart disease | Because these medications can affect heart function, it is important that your doctor knows about your heart condition. |
| Liver disease | Because the liver plays an important role in eliminating drugs from the body, it is important to be aware of liver disease. |
| Neuromuscular diseases (e.g. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) | People with these conditions may respond differently to anesthetics. |
| Allergies to a medicine, food, or dye | If you are allergic to Desflurane or any other anesthetic, it is essential to notify us. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Special care should be taken when using any medication during pregnancy. |
| If the baby is breastfed | You should talk to your doctor about whether the medication passes to your baby through breast milk. |
How do I use this medicine and what happens afterwards?
This is not a medicine that you take home and use on your own. It is given to you in a hospital or clinic by an anesthesiologist and trained staff . You breathe this gas, usually through a mask on your face. After a while, you will fall asleep and not feel anything until the surgery is over.
Can this medicine be given to children?
Yes, in some cases, this medicine is even given to newborns. But special precautions are taken. If your child is going to have surgery, discuss this with your pediatrician and anesthesiologist.
The most important thing is that your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing are constantly monitored by machines throughout the surgery, so there's no reason to be afraid.
Other drugs that may interact with Desflurane
Some medications you take may interact with this anesthetic. Therefore, you should tell your anesthesiologist about all medications you take, even vitamins .
The main types of medications to be concerned about are:
- Medications for mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.
- Sleeping pills.
- Some strong painkillers, especially narcotic medicines.
- Medicines given to relax muscles during surgery (neuromuscular blockers).
Also, if you use alcohol, cigarettes, or other drugs, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
What side effects might I experience?
As with any medication, Desflurane can cause some side effects. Most of these are temporary. However, there are some things to be aware of. This information is not intended to scare you, but to educate you.
| Side effect/symptom | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Symptoms to report to your doctor or nurse immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. These should be reported immediately. |
| Difficulty breathing | Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, etc. |
| Signs of liver damage | Dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), pain in the upper right side of the stomach, and feeling feverish. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly. |
| Dizziness or vertigo | Feeling of weakness, dizziness, and fainting. |
| Symptoms that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Cough | Temporary cough that may occur after anesthesia. |
| Drowsiness | It is normal to feel sleepy for a day or two after anesthesia. |
| Nausea and vomiting | This is a common side effect. Doctors will provide the necessary medication for it. |
Important: If you experience any of the above serious side effects after going home from the hospital, immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. If in doubt, you can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Desflurane is an inhaled anesthetic that is used to numb pain during surgery.
- This is only given in a hospital, under the supervision of an anesthesiologist.
- Before surgery, be sure to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking.
- After anesthesia, avoid driving or operating machinery, as drowsiness and dizziness may occur. Avoid alcohol completely.
- After discharge from the hospital, if serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe allergic reactions, or yellowing of the skin develop, seek medical advice immediately or go to the nearest ETU.
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