Inhaled methoxyflurane for moderate, acute nociceptive pain in adults

Inhaled methoxyflurane is used for moderate, acute nociceptive pain when prompt, time-limited analgesia is required (eg pain associated with a dressing change). It can also be used for prompt pain relief before opioid analgesia can be established (eg before hospital transfer). Oral opioids should be used for ongoing analgesia; if the oral route is not appropriate, opioids may be administered subcutaneously via a subcutaneous cannula, or via patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) (seek expert advice).

If methoxyflurane is indicated for adults with moderate, acute nociceptive pain due to an acute illness (eg ovarian torsion) or following trauma, use:

methoxyflurane via a self-administered device, inhaled intermittently to maintain adequate analgesia1. Full analgesic effect is expected after 5 to 8 inhalations. Do not exceed a dose of 6 mL in 24 hours. acute pain, moderate (adults) methoxyflurane    

1 Methoxyflurane must always be administered using the device supplied with the vials because they have a fitted charcoal filter, which minimises nonpatient exposure.Return