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Isoflurane
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| General Anesthesia [PE] | PE | All 29 members |
| General Anesthetic [EPC] | EPC | All 17 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 216527-001 | ISOFLURANE | LIQUID | ISOFLURANE | Prescription | AN |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (aerosols)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original application | 1 | Approved | November 4, 2025 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260105). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation may be used for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. Adequate data have not been developed to establish its application in obstetrical anesthesia. Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation, a general anesthetic, is an inhalation agent indicated for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. (1)
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation should be administered only by persons trained in the administration of general anesthesia. Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation should only be delivered using a vaporizer specifically designed and designated for use with isoflurane. (2) The administration of general anesthesia must be individualized and titrated based on the patient’s age and clinical status. (2) 2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Information Isoflurane should be administered only by persons trained in the administration of general anesthesia. Facilities for maintenance of a patent airway, artificial ventilation, oxygen enrichment, and circulatory resuscitation must be immediately available. Isoflurane is administered by inhalation. Isoflurane should be delivered from a vaporizer specifically designed for use with isoflurane. Dosage for induction and maintenance must be individualized and titrated to the desired effect according to the patient’s age and clinical status. With the exception of neonates, the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane decreases with increasing patient age. Nitrous oxide decreases the MAC of isoflurane (see Table 1). Opioids decrease the MAC of isoflurane [see Drug Interactions (7)] . Isoflurane potentiates the muscle relaxant effect of all neuromuscular blockers and decreases the required doses of neuromuscular blocking agents [see Drug Interactions (7) . The dose should be adjusted accordingly. All patients anesthetized with isoflurane should be continually monitored (e.g., monitoring of the electrocardiogram, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and end tidal CO 2 ). Isoflurane is a profound respiratory depressant. Excessive respiratory depression may be related to depth of anesthesia and respond to decreasing the inspired concentration of isoflurane. The depressant effect is accentuated by concurrent use of opioids and other respiratory depressants. Respiration should be closely monitored and assisted or controlled ventilation employed when necessary. 2.2 Premedication Premedication should be selected according to the need of the individual patient, taking into account that secretions are weakly stimulated by isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation, and the heart rate tends to be increased. 2.3 Induction Induction with isoflurane in oxygen or in combination with oxygen-nitrous oxide mixtures may produce coughing, breath holding, laryngospasm and bronchospasm, which increases with the concentration of isoflurane. These difficulties may be avoided by the use of a hypnotic dose of an ultra-short-acting barbiturate. Inspired concentrations of 1.5 to 3% isoflurane usually produce surgical anesthesia in 7 to 10 minutes. 2.4 Maintenance Isoflurane MAC values according to age are shown below: Table 1: Effect of Age on Minimum Alveolar Concentration of Isoflurane Age Average MAC Value In 100% Oxygen Average MAC Value In 30% Oxygen and 70% N 2 O Preterm neonates less than 32 weeks gestational age 1.28% Preterm neonates 32-37 weeks gestational age 1.41% 0-1 month 1.60% 1-6 months 1.87% 6-12 months 1.80% 1-5 years 1.60% 6-10 years 1.45% 11-18 years 1.38% 19-30 years 1.28% 0.56% 31-55 years 1.15% 0.50% 55-83 years 1.05% 0.37% Dosage for induction and maintenance must be individualized and titrated to the desired effect according to the patient’s age and clinical status. Surgical levels of anesthesia may be sustained with a 1 to 2.5% concentration when nitrous oxide is used concomitantly. An additional 0.5 to 1% may be required when isoflurane is given using oxygen alone. If added relaxation is required, supplemental doses of neuromuscular blocking agents may be used. The level of blood pressure during maintenance is an inverse function of isoflurane concentration in the absence of other complicating problems. Excessive decreases may be due to depth of anesthesia and in such instances may be corrected by lightening anesthesia. Isoflurane causes a dose-dependent redu …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3. DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Isoflurane is a clear, colorless, stable liquid containing no additives or chemical stabilizers, 100% isoflurane. Liquid (stable): 100% ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4. CONTRAINDICATIONS Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation is contraindicated in patients: in whom general anesthesia is contraindicated. with known sensitivity to isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation or to other halogenated agents [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] . with known or suspected genetic susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)]. with a history of confirmed hepatitis due to a halogenated inhalational anesthetic or a history of unexplained moderate to severe hepatic dysfunction (e.g., jaundice associated with fever and/or eosinophilia) after anesthesia with isoflurane or other halogenated inhalational anesthetics. Patients in whom general anesthesia is contraindicated (4) Patients with known sensitivity to isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation or other halogenated agents (4) Patients with known or suspected genetic susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia (4) Patients with a history of confirmed hepatitis due to a halogenated inhalational anesthetic or a history of unexplained moderate to severe hepatic dysfunction (e.g., jaundice associated with fever and/or eosinophilia) after anesthesia with isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation or other halogenated inhalational anesthetics (4)
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Malignant Hyperthermia : Malignant hyperthermia may occur, especially in individuals with known or suspected susceptibility based on genetic factors or family history. Discontinue triggering agents, administer intravenous dantrolene sodium, and apply supportive therapies. ( 5.1 ) • Perioperative Hyperkalemia : Perioperative hyperkalemia may occur. Patients with latent or overt neuromuscular disease, particularly with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Early, aggressive intervention is recommended. ( 5.2 ) • Hepatic Reactions : May cause sensitivity hepatitis in patients sensitized by previous exposure to halogenated anesthetics. Approach repeated anesthesia with caution. ( 5.3 ) • Hypersensitivity Reactions : Allergic-type hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported with isoflurane. ( 5.4 ) • Abortions : Increased blood loss comparable to that seen with halothane has been observed in patients undergoing abortions. ( 5.5 ) • QT Prolongation : Carefully monitor cardiac rhythm when administering Isoflurane USP to susceptible patients. ( 5.6 ) • Interactions with Desiccated Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Absorbents: May react with desiccated CO 2 absorbents to produce carbon monoxide. Replace desiccated CO 2 absorbent before administration of Isoflurane USP. ( 5.7 ) • Pediatric Neurotoxicity : In developing animals, exposures greater than 3 hours cause neurotoxicity. Weigh benefits against potential risks when considering elective procedures in children under 3 years old. ( 5.8 ) 5.1 Malignant Hyperthermia In susceptible individuals, volatile anesthetic agents, including Isoflurane USP, may trigger malignant hyperthermia, a skeletal muscle hypermetabolic state leading to high oxygen demand. Fatal outcomes of malignant hyperthermia have been reported. The risk of developing malignant hyperthermia increases with the concomitant administration of succinylcholine and volatile anesthetic agents. Isoflurane USP can induce malignant hyperthermia in patients with known or suspected susceptibility based on genetic factors or family history, including those with certain inherited ryanodine receptor (RYR1) or dihydropyridine receptor (CACNA1S) variants [see Contraindications (4) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.5) ]. Signs consistent with malignant hyperthermia may include hyperthermia, hypoxia, hypercapnia, muscle rigidity (e.g., jaw muscle spasm), tachycardia (e.g., particularly that unresponsive to deepening anesthesia or analgesic medication administration), tachypnea, cyanosis, arrhythmias, hypovolemia, and hemodynamic instability. Skin mottling, coagulopathies, and renal failure may occur later in the course of the hypermetabolic process. Successful treatment of malignant hyperthermia depends on early recognition of the clinical signs. If malignant hyperthermia is suspected, discontinue all triggering agents (i.e., volatile anesthetic agents and succinylcholine), administer intravenous dantrolene sodium, and initiate supportive therapies. Consult prescribing information for intravenous dantrolene sodium for additional information on patient management. Supportive therapies include administration of supplemental oxygen and respiratory support based on clinical need, maintenance of hemodynamic stability and adequate urinary output, management of fluid and electrolyte balance, correction of acid base derangements, and institution of measures to control rising temperature. 5.2 Perioperative Hyperkalemia Use of inhaled anesthetic agents has been associated with rare increases in serum potassium levels that have resulted in cardiac arrhythmias and death in pediatric patients during the postoperative period. Patients with latent as well as overt neuromuscular disease, particularly Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Concomitant use of succinylcholine has been associated with most, but not all, of these cases. These patients also experienced significant el …
Warnings
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNINGS Perioperative Hyperkalemia Use of inhaled anesthetic agents has been associated with rare increases in serum potassium levels that have resulted in cardiac arrhythmias and death in pediatric patients during the postoperative period. Patients with latent as well as overt neuromuscular disease, particularly Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Concomitant use of succinylcholine has been associated with most, but not all, of these cases. These patients also experienced significant elevations in serum creatinine kinase levels and, in some cases, changes in urine consistent with myoglobinuria. Despite the similarity in presentation to malignant hyperthermia, none of these patients exhibited signs or symptoms of muscle rigidity or hypermetabolic state. Early and aggressive intervention to treat the hyperkalemia and resistant arrhythmias is recommended, as is subsequent evaluation for latent neuromuscular disease. Malignant Hyperthermia In susceptible individuals, isoflurane anesthesia may trigger a skeletal muscle hypermetabolic state leading to high oxygen demand and the clinical syndrome known as malignant hyperthermia. The syndrome includes nonspecific features such as muscle rigidity, tachycardia, tachypnea, cyanosis, arrhythmias and unstable blood pressure. (It should also be noted that many of these nonspecific signs may appear with light anesthesia, acute hypoxia, etc.) An increase in overall metabolism may be reflected in an elevated temperature (which may rise rapidly early or late in the case, but usually is not the first sign of augmented metabolism) and an increased usage of the CO 2 absorption system (hot cannister). PaO 2 and pH may decrease, and hyperkalemia and a base deficit may appear. Treatment includes discontinuance of triggering agents (e.g., isoflurane), administration of intravenous dantrolene sodium, and application of supportive therapy. Such therapy includes vigorous efforts to restore body temperature to normal, respiratory and circulatory support as indicated, and management of electrolyte- fluid-acid-base derangements. (Consult prescribing information for dantrolene sodium intravenous for additional information on patient management). Renal failure may appear later, and urine flow should be sustained if possible. Since levels of anesthesia may be altered easily and rapidly, only vaporizers producing predictable concentrations should be used Hypotension and respiratory depression increase as anesthesia is deepened. Increased blood loss comparable to that seen with halothane has been observed in patients undergoing abortions. Isoflurane markedly increases cerebral blood flow at deeper levels of anesthesia. There may be a transient rise in cerebral spinal fluid pressure which is fully reversible with hyperventilation. Pediatric Neurotoxicity Published animal studies demonstrate that the administration of anesthetic and sedation drugs that block NMDA receptors and/or potentiate GABA activity increase neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain and result in long-term cognitive deficits when used for longer than 3 hours. The clinical significance of these findings is not clear. However, based on the available data, the window of vulnerability to these changes is believed to correlate with exposures in the third trimester of gestation through the first several months of life, but may extend out to approximately three years of age in humans (See PRECAUTIONS/ Pregnancy , Pediatric Use , and ANIMAL TOXICOLOGY AND/OR PHARMACOLOGY ). Some published studies in children suggest that similar deficits may occur after repeated or prolonged exposures to anesthetic agents early in life and may result in adverse cognitive or behavioral effects. These studies have substantial limitations, and it is not clear if the observed effects are due to the anesthetic/sedation drug administration or other factors such as the surgery or underlying illness. Anesthetic and sedation drugs are a necessary par …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6. ADVERSE REACTIONS Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5%) are agitation, cough, breath holding, nausea, chills/shivering, vomiting, laryngospasm, delirium. (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Emprise Pharma LLC. at (610) 933-1969 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience The following adverse reactions were identified from controlled clinical trials of adult and pediatric subjects exposed to isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation. The trials were conducted using a variety of pre-medications, other anesthetics, and surgical procedures of varying lengths. The most serious reported adverse reactions in alphabetical order are agitation, arrhythmia, breath holding, elevated liver enzyme, hypotension and laryngospasm. The most frequent adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5%) described in Table 1 are agitation, breath holding, chills/shivering, cough, delirium, laryngospasm, nausea, and vomiting. Adverse reactions with an incidence between 1% and 5% are provided in Table 2. Adverse reactions with an incidence less than 1% are provided in Table 3. Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Table 2: Adverse Reactions ≥ 5% System Organ Class (SOC) Adverse Reaction Frequency PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS Delirium 6.2% (N=2830) NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS Agitation (Excitement) Induction 51.8% (N=515) 1 RESPIRATORY, THORACIC, AND MEDIASTINAL DISORDERS Breath holding Induction 23.9% (N=515) 1 Cough Induction 28.2% (N=515) 1 Laryngospasm Induction 8.0% (N=515) 1 GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS Nausea Recovery 15.4 % (N=2830) Vomiting Recovery 9.5% (N=2830) GENERAL DISORDERS AND ADMINISTRATIVE SITE CONDITIONS Chills/shivering 14.0% (N=1691) 2 1 Represents patients not receiving intravenous agents or neuromuscular blocking agents for intubation (i.e., patients receiving inhalation induction). 2 Reflects the number of patients with recorded body temperature measurements. Table 3: Adverse Reactions between 1% and 5% System Organ Class (SOC) Adverse Reaction Frequency NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS Movement Maintenance 1.8% (N=2830) CARDIAC DISORDERS Ventricular arrhythmia (Intraoperative) Induction 2.1% (N=2161) Maintenance 2.7% (N=2253) Nodal arrhythmia (Intraoperative) Induction 4.0% (N=2161) Maintenance 1.7% (N=2253) Atrial arrhythmia (Intraoperative) Induction 1.6% (N=2161) Maintenance 2.2% (N=2253) Arrhythmia (Postoperative) 1.1% (N=2830) RESPIRATORY, THORACIC, AND MEDIASTINAL DISORDERS Breath holding Maintenance 1.1% (N=359) 1 Cough Maintenance 4.2 % (N=359) 1 1 Represents patients not receiving intravenous agents or neuromuscular blocking agents for intubation (i.e., patients receiving inhalation induction). Table 4: Adverse Reactions less than 1% System Organ Class (SOC) Adverse Reaction Frequency PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS Mood changes 0.3% (N=2830) Nightmare 0.4% (N=2175) 1 NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS Convulsive pattern on electroencephalogram 0.5% (N=200) 2 Seizure 0.04% (N=2830) VASCULAR DISORDERS Hypotension Postoperative 0.3% (N=2830) Hypertension Postoperative 0.1% (N=2830) RESPIRATORY, THORACIC, AND MEDIASTINAL DISORDERS Laryngospasm Maintenance 0.8% (N=359) 3 Secretions Induction 0.2% (N=515) 3 Maintenance 0.0% (N=359) 3 GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS Vomiting Induction 0.8% (N=515) 3 Retching Induction 1.0% (N=515) 3 Maintenance 0.8% (N=359) 3 SKIN AND SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE DISORDERS Diaphoresis Induction 0.2% (N=515) 3 Maintenance 0.0% (N=359) 3 1 Reflects the number of patients interviewed by a physician in the recovery period. 2 Reflects the number of recorded electroencephalograms. 3 Represents patients not receiving intravenous agents or neuromuscular blocking agents for intubation (i.e., patients receiving inhalation induction). The following adverse reactions (see Table 5) were o …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7. DRUG INTERACTIONS Concomitant use of N 2 O and/or opioids reduces the MAC of isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation. Adjust dose accordingly. (7.1, 7.2) Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation decreases the doses of neuromuscular blocking agents required. Adjust dose accordingly. (7.3) 7.1 Opioids Opioids decrease the Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) of isoflurane. Opioids such as fentanyl and its analogues, when combined with isoflurane, may lead to a synergistic fall in blood pressure and respiratory rate. 7.2 Nitrous Oxide Nitrous oxide decreases the MAC of isoflurane [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)] . 7.3 Neuromuscular Blocking Agents Isoflurane potentiates the muscle relaxant effect of all neuromuscular blocking agents and decreases the required doses of neuromuscular blocking agents. In general, anesthetic concentrations of isoflurane at equilibrium reduce the ED 95 of succinylcholine, atracurium, pancuronium, rocuronium and vecuronium by approximately 25 to 40% or more compared to N 2 O/opioid anesthesia. If added relaxation is required, supplemental doses of neuromuscular blocking agents may be used. 7.4 Adrenaline Isoflurane is similar to sevoflurane in the sensitization of the myocardium to arrhythmogenic effect of exogenously administered adrenaline. Doses of adrenaline greater than 5mcg/kg, when administered submucosally may produce multiple ventricular arrhythmias. 7.5 Calcium Antagonists Isoflurane may lead to marked hypotension in patients treated with calcium antagonists. 7.6 Concomitant Use with Beta Blockers Concomitant use of beta blockers may exaggerate the cardiovascular effects of inhalational anesthetics, including hypotension and negative inotropic effects. 7.7 Concomitant Use with MAO Inhibitors Concomitant use of MAO inhibitors and inhalational anesthetics may increase the risk of hemodynamic instability during surgery or medical procedures.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS In the event of overdosage, or what may appear to be overdosage, the following action should be taken, as appropriate: Stop drug administration, establish a clear airway, and initiate assisted or controlled ventilation with pure oxygen. Monitor cardiovascular function and manage signs of poor end-organ perfusion as clinically indicated. Geriatric Use : The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of Isoflurane USP decreases with increasing patient age. ( 8.5 ) See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. Revised: 02/2025 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, embryofetal toxicity was noted in pregnant mice exposed to 0.075% (increased post implantation losses) and 0.3% isoflurane (increased post implantation losses and decreased livebirth index) during organogenesis. Published studies in pregnant primates demonstrate that the administration of anesthetic and sedation drugs that block NMDA receptors and/or potentiate GABA activity during the period of peak brain development increases neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain of the offspring when used for longer than 3 hours. There are no data on pregnancy exposures in primates corresponding to periods prior to the third trimester in humans (see Data). The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15- 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Pregnant rats were exposed to isoflurane at concentrations of 0%, 0.1%, or 0.4% for two hours per day during organogenesis (Gestational Days 6-15). Isoflurane did not cause malformations or clear maternal toxicity under these conditions. Pregnant mice exposed to isoflurane at concentrations of 0%, 0.075%, or 0.30% for 2 hours per day during organogenesis (Gestational Days 6-15). Isoflurane increased fetal toxicity (higher post implantation losses at 0.075 and 0.3% groups and significantly lower live-birth index in the 0.3% isoflurane treatment group). Isoflurane did not cause malformations or clear maternal toxicity under these conditions. Pregnant rats were exposed to concentrations of isoflurane at 0%, 0.1%, or 0.4% for 2 hours per day during late gestation (GD 15-20). Animals appeared slightly sedated during exposure. No adverse effects on the offspring or evidence of maternal toxicity were reported. This study did not evaluate neurobehavioral function including learning and memory in the first generation (F1) of pups. In a published study in primates, administration of an anesthetic dose of ketamine for 24 hours on Gestation Day 122 increased neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain of the fetus. In other published studies, administration of either isoflurane or propofol for 5 hours on Gestation Day 120 resulted in increased neuronal and oligodendrocyte apoptosis in the developing brain of the offspring. With respect to brain development, this time period corresponds to the third trimester of gestation in the human. The clinical significance of these findings is not clear; however, studies in juvenile animals suggest neuroapoptosis correlates with long-term cognitive deficits [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) , Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2) ]. 8.2 Lactation Due to insufficient information regarding the excretion of isoflurane in human milk, the potential risks and benefits for each specific patient should be carefully considered before isoflurane is administered to nursing women. 8.4 Pediatric Use During the induction of anesthesia, saliva flow and tracheobronchial secretion can increase and can be the cause of larynogospasm, particularly in children. Published juvenile animal studies demonstrate that the administration of anes …
Description
openFDA Drug LabelingDESCRIPTION Isoflurane, USP, a nonflammable liquid administered by vaporizing, is a general inhalation anesthetic drug. It is 1-chloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether, and its structural formula is: Some physical constants are: Molecular weight 184.5 Boiling point at 760 mm Hg 48.5°C (uncorr.) Refractive index n 20 D 1.2990-1.3005 Specific gravity 25° / 25°C 1.496 Vapor pressure in mm Hg Equation for vapor pressure calculation: 20°C 238 25oC 295 30°C 367 35°C 450 Log 10 P vap = A + B T where: A=8.056 B=-1664.58 T=°C = 273.16 (Kelvin Partition coefficients at 37°C: Water / gas 0.61 Blood / gas 1.43 Oil / gas 90.8 Partition coefficients at 25°C - rubber and plastic Conductive rubber / gas 62.0 Butyl rubber / gas 75.0 Polyvinyl chloride / gas 110.0 Polyethylene / gas ~2.0 Polyurethane / gas ~1.4 Polyolefin / gas ~1.1 Butyl acetate / gas ~2.5 Purity by gas chromatography >99.9% Lower limit of flammability in oxygen or nitrous oxide at 9 joules/sec. and 23oC None Lower limit of flammability in oxygen or nitrous oxide at 900 joules/sec. and 23oC Greater than useful concentration in anesthesia Isoflurane is a clear, colorless, stable liquid containing no additives or chemical stabilizers. Isoflurane has a mildly pungent, musty, ethereal odor. Samples stored in indirect sunlight in clear, colorless glass for five years, as well as samples directly exposed for 30 hours to a 2 amp, 115 volt, 60 cycle long wave U.V. light were unchanged in composition as determined by gas chromatography. Isoflurane in one normal sodium methoxide-methanol solution, a strong base, for over six months consumed essentially no alkali, indicative of strong base stability. Isoflurane does not decompose in the presence of soda lime (at normal operating temperatures), and does not attack aluminum, tin, brass, iron, or copper. Chemical Structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10. OVERDOSAGE The symptoms of overdosage of isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation can present as a deepening of anesthesia, cardiac and/or respiratory depression in spontaneously breathing patients, and cardiac depression in ventilated patients in whom hypercapnia and hypoxia may occur only at a late stage. In the event of overdosage, or what may appear to be overdosage, the following action should be taken, as appropriate: Stop drug administration, establish a clear airway, and initiate assisted or controlled ventilation with pure oxygen. Monitor cardiovascular function and manage signs of poor end-organ perfusion as clinically indicated.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16. HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation, a clear, colorless, volatile liquid, having a slight odor, is available in the following presentations: FILL CONTAINER PACK SIZE NDC 100 mL Amber-colored Glass 1 Bottle 42677-326-01 250 mL Amber-colored Glass 1 Bottle 42677-327-01 16.1 Safety and Handling Occupational Caution The following reactions have been reported following occupational exposure to isoflurane: dyspnea, bronchospasm, stridor, cough, dizziness, paresthesia, hepatic reactions, flushing rash, contact dermatitis, erythema, periorbital edema, eye irritation, conjunctival hyperemia, and headache. There is no specific work exposure limit established for isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NIOSH) recommends that no worker should be exposed at ceiling concentrations greater than 2 ppm of any halogenated anesthetic agent over a sampling period not to exceed one hour. The predicted effects of acute overexposure by inhalation of isoflurane, USP liquid for inhalation include headache, dizziness or (in extreme cases) unconsciousness [see Overdosage (10)] . There are no documented adverse effects of chronic exposure to halogenated anesthetic vapors ( W aste A nesthetic G ases or WAGs) in the workplace. Although results of some epidemiological studies suggest a link between exposure to halogenated anesthetics and increased health problems (particularly spontaneous abortion), the relationship is not conclusive. Since exposure to WAGs is one possible factor in the findings for these studies, operating room personnel, and pregnant women in particular, should minimize exposure. Precautions include adequate general ventilation in the operating room, the use of a well-designed and well-maintained scavenging system, work practices to minimize leaks and spills while the anesthetic agent is in use, and routine equipment maintenance to minimize leaks. 16.2 Storage Store at room temperature 15°C -30°C (59°F -86°F). Isoflurane contains no additives and has been demonstrated to be stable at room temperature for periods in excess of five years.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: ISOFLURANE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12164-002-55 | 12164-002 | Halocarbon Life Sciences, LLC | 270 kg in 1 DRUM (12164-002-55) | October 20, 1999 |
| 12164-012-10 | 12164-012 | Halocarbon Life Sciences, LLC | 100 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (12164-012-10) | October 20, 1999 |
| 12164-012-25 | 12164-012 | Halocarbon Life Sciences, LLC | 250 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (12164-012-25) | October 20, 1999 |
| 66794-017-10 | 66794-017 | Piramal Critical Care, Inc. | 100 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (66794-017-10) | October 7, 2011 |
| 66794-017-25 | 66794-017 | Piramal Critical Care, Inc. | 250 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (66794-017-25) | October 7, 2011 |
| 66794-020-10 | 66794-020 | Piramal Critical Care, Inc. | 100 mL in 1 BOTTLE (66794-020-10) | November 13, 2013 |
| 66794-020-25 | 66794-020 | Piramal Critical Care, Inc. | 250 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (66794-020-25) | November 13, 2013 |
| 65085-0019-5 | 65085-0019 | Piramal Pharma Limited | 250 kg in 1 DRUM (65085-0019-5) | January 1, 2010 |
| 42677-114-20 | 42677-114 | Shandong New Time Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | 180 L in 1 DRUM (42677-114-20) | January 1, 2021 |
| 42677-326-01 | 42677-326 | Shandong New Time Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | 1 BOTTLE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (42677-326-01) / 100 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS | November 4, 2025 |
| 42677-327-01 | 42677-327 | Shandong New Time Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | 1 BOTTLE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (42677-327-01) / 250 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS | November 4, 2025 |
| 12164-002 | 12164-002 | Halocarbon Life Sciences, LLC | — | October 20, 1999 |
| 12164-012 | 12164-012 | Halocarbon Life Sciences, LLC | — | October 20, 1999 |
| 66794-017 | 66794-017 | Piramal Critical Care, Inc. | — | October 7, 2011 |
| 66794-020 | 66794-020 | Piramal Critical Care, Inc. | — | November 13, 2013 |
| 65085-0019 | 65085-0019 | Piramal Pharma Limited | — | January 1, 2010 |
| 42677-114 | 42677-114 | Shandong New Time Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | — | January 1, 2021 |
| 42677-326 | 42677-326 | Shandong New Time Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | — | November 4, 2025 |
| 42677-327 | 42677-327 | Shandong New Time Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | — | November 4, 2025 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.