Is methoxyflurane a suitable battlefield analgesic?
Anecdotal reports of mechanical failure of morphine autojets have triggered a review of possible alternatives. Methoxyflurane is one such alternative already widely used by the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces. The potential benefits and likely significant drawbacks of methoxyflurane are reviewed with the aim of stimulating discussion.
McLennan
J V
JV
Department of Emergency Medicine, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, M13 9WL. jackie@timian.co.uk
D000700:Analgesics / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001315:Australia; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D008733:Methoxyflurane / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008887:Military Medicine / Q000592:standards*; D008889:Military Personnel; D009520:New Zealand; D017211:Treatment Failure; D014857:Warfare
D000700:Analgesics; D008733:Methoxyflurane