Question

Which of the following order of inducing cardiac arrhythmias of inhaled anesthetics is correct?

(a) F < Br < I < Cl

(b) F < Cl < Br < I

(c) F > Cl > Br > I

(d) Br < I < F < Cl

This question was addressed to me in final exam.

My doubt stems from Mechanism of Action of General Anesthetics topic in section Local & General Anesthetics, Opioid Analgesics, Drug Addiction and Drug Abuse of Drug Biotechnology

Answer 1

Right option is (b) F < Cl < Br < I

For explanation: Although halogenations of hydrocarbons and ethers increase anesthetic potency, it also increases the potential for inducing cardiac arrhythmias in the following order F < Cl < Br < I. Halogenated methyl ethyl ethers (Enflurane and Isoflurane) are more stable, are more potent, and have better clinical profile than halogenated diethyl ethers.