Desflurane
Desflurane Inhalation vapour, liquid
What is this medicine?
DESFLURANE (des FLOO rane) is a medicine that you breathe to help reduce any pain from a procedure or surgery.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
a history of malignant hyperthermia
brain tumor
heart disease
liver disease
neuromuscular disease like Duchenne muscular dystrophy
an unusual or allergic reaction to desflurane, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for inhalation. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as newborns for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply; this medicine is not for regular use.
What may interact with this medicine?
This medicine may interact with the following medications:
certain medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
certain medicines for sleep
narcotic medicines for pain
neuromuscular blockers like pancuronium, vecuronium, and atracurium
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
dark urine
fast, irregular heartbeat
feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms
right upper belly pain
unusually weak or tired
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):
cough
drowsiness
nausea, vomiting
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert