Effects of Halothane, Isoflurane and Enflurane on Ventilation in Children

Pharmacology of inhalational anaesthetics in infants and children*

“…However, halothane depresses ventilation in a dosedependent manner by decreasing tidal volume and attenuating the response to carbon dioxide. This respiratory depression is also attenuated in part, by an increase in the respiratory rate (Lindahl, Yates & Hatch 1987;Murat et al 1987;Wren et al 1987). Intercostal muscle activity is attenuated and paradoxical breathing may occur at concentrations B 1% end-tidal halothane.…”