Abstract

Halothane (Fluothane - ICI) is a valuable inhalation anaesthetic which is non-explosive and rapidly eliminated. Though it is a halogenated hydro-carbon like chloroform, its potential harmful effect on the liver seems to be no greater than those of ether and cyclopropane. While isolated reports of liver damage have appeared from time to time without definitely implicating halothane, several recent reports have raised the question of its safety (e. g. J. Lindenbaum & E. Leifer, New Engl. J. Med. 1963, 286, 525; J. P. Bunker & C. M. Blumenfeld, ibid., p. 531).