A colourless liquid that produces unconsciousness when inhaled.
Ether was the first general anaesthetic.
A colourless, volatile, highly in?ammable liquid, formed by the action of sulphuric acid on alcohol. Ether boils below body temperature and therefore rapidly evaporates when sprayed over the skin. Dissolving many substances such as fats, oils and resins better than alcohol or water, it is used in the preparation of many drugs. Formerly used as an anaesthetic, it has been replaced by safer and more e?cient drugs.
n. a volatile liquid formerly used as an anaesthetic administered by inhalation, but now replaced by safer and more efficient drugs. Ether irritates the respiratory tract and affects the circulation.
Along with DEXTRAN and GELATIN, this is a substance with a large molecular structure used to treat shocked patients with burns (see BURNS AND SCALDS) or SEPTICAEMIA in order to expand and maintain their blood volume. Like other plasma substitutes, this form of starch can be used as an emergency, short-term treatment for severe bleeding until blood for transfusion is available. Plasma substitutes must be used with caution in patients who have heart disease or impairment of their kidney function. Patients should be monitored for hypersensitivity reactions and for changes in their BLOOD PRESSURE (see SHOCK).... etherified starch
Health Encyclopedia