Enflurane
Enflurane is a halogenated inhalation anesthetic agent used to induce and maintain general anesthesia during surgical procedures. It works by depressing the central nervous system, producing loss of consciousness, analgesia, and muscle relaxation. While once widely used, it has been largely replaced by newer anesthetic agents with improved safety profiles.
Enflurane is an inhaled anesthetic used to put patients to sleep during surgery.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N01AB04
- RxNorm
- 3920
- Generic
- Enflurane
- Class
- atc-n01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Enflurane is used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in adults and children undergoing surgical procedures. It may be used in both inpatient and outpatient surgical settings.
Enflurane is a volatile halogenated ether that works by depressing the central nervous system. It enhances the effects of inhibitory neurotransmitters and inhibits excitatory neurotransmitter receptors, resulting in sedation, amnesia, unconsciousness, and muscle relaxation necessary for surgery.
Enflurane should only be administered by trained anesthesia providers in settings equipped for airway management. It can cause respiratory depression, hypotension, and cardiac arrhythmias. The drug is contraindicated in patients with known sensitivity to halogenated anesthetics or those prone to malignant hyperthermia. Seizures may occur at high concentrations. Use during pregnancy should be carefully considered.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy