An inhalational anaesthetic used in minor surgical procedures of short duration, and for the induction of ANAESTHESIA for longer surgical operations.
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 Formerly used as an anaesthetic, it has been replaced by safer and more e?cient drugs.... ether
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
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