Mnemonic for Halothane

Halothane (Fluothane) Mnemonic


HALOTHANE

H- malignant Hyperthermia
A- anesthesia without analgesia
L- decomposed by Light
O- vasOdilatOr, brOnchOdilatOr, uterine relaxant
TH- thymol as preservative
A- amber bottle to store it
N- hepatic Necrosis
E- eraser, erodes rubber


Here are some key points about Halothane that might be helpful for your board exam review:

Chemical Properties:
  • Structure: 2-bromo, 2-chloro, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane.
  • Physical Properties: Clear, colorless liquid at room temperature with a sweet, non-pungent odor.
Pharmacology:
  • Potency: High potency due to carbon-chloride and carbon-bromine bonds.
  • Solubility: Intermediate solubility in blood, allowing for rapid onset and recovery from anesthesia.

Usage:
  • Induction Procedure: Typically involves administering nitrous oxide for 2 minutes, then starting Halothane at 0.5%, and increasing by 0.5% every 3 breaths until the desired depth of anesthesia is achieved.
  • Maintenance Dose: 0.5-1.5%.
Metabolism and Elimination:
  • Metabolism: Most widely metabolized inhalational agent, with 20% occurring in the endoplasmic reticulum of hepatocytes.
  • Main Metabolite: Trifluoroacetic acid.
  • Elimination: Via urine.
Complications: Hepatic Dysfunction: Halothane-associated hepatic dysfunction can occur, leading to centrilobular hepatic necrosis. This usually occurs within 15 days of administration and is more common in adults.

For more anesthesiology mnemonics check this mnemonic book.

          This post covers the points you need to know for your board exams as well as for teaching residents on the daily rounds. Medical professionals can't use the information here to treat their patients nor people can use the information her to treat themselves. If you are having any medical issues, contact your local emergency services or your primary care provider. Please refer to your doctor for medical advice.