A review of the safety and efficacy of inhaled methoxyflurane as an analgesic for outpatient procedures

Abstract

Methoxyflurane delivered via a hand-held inhaler is a proven analgesic which has been used in Australasia for emergency relief of trauma associated pain since the 1970s. The agent is self-administered by the patient under the supervision of trained personnel. More than 5 million patients have received inhaled methoxyflurane without significant side effects. Methoxyflurane is also licensed in Australasia for the relief of pain in monitored conscious patients requiring analgesia for minor surgical procedures. Recent clinical studies undertaken in a variety of outpatient settings, including colonoscopy, prostate biopsy, dental procedures, bone marrow biopsy, and the management of burns dressing..