For use as an inhalation agent for induction and/or maintenance of anesthesia for inpatient and outpatient surgery in adults.
Desflurane induces a reduction in junctional conductance by decreasing gap junction channel opening times and increasing gap junction channel closing times. Desflurane also activates calcium dependent ATPase in the sarcoplasmic reticulum by increasing the fluidity of the lipid membrane. It also appears to bind the D subunit of ATP synthase and NADH dehydogenase. Desflurane also binds to and agonizes the GABA receptor, the large conductance Ca<sup>2+</sup> activated potassium channel, the glycine receptors, and antagonizes the glutamate receptors.
Rapidly absorbed into the circulation via the lungs following inhalation.