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Abstract

Introduction The use of anaesthetics to minimise distress suffered by animals during surgical procedures or euthanasia is vital. There are two major types of anaesthesia: inhalable (ether, halo thane and the 'flurane' family) and injectable (barbiturates, steroids, disso ciative agents, neuroleptanal gesics and propofol); both types have their own advantages and disadvantages. This minireview focuses on discussing the most commonly used methods of anaesthesia in laboratory animals and on evaluating their advantages and disadvantages due to controver sies about the best choice for anaesthesia. Conclusion Particularities of inhalable and injectable anaesthetics should be taken into consideration before using them. Thus, a proper evalua tion of the protocol for anaesthesia should consider animal welfare, pharmacokinetics and adverse effects of the drug, which could affect the organ under study. In addition, the need for equipment and techni cal expertise, as well as the best route of administration, should be considered.