Hepatic Microsomal Lipoperoxidation and Inhalation Anesthetics

Hepatic microsomal lipoperoxidation in vivo is stimulated by anesthetic concentrations of halothane (Fluothane) and chloroform in phenobarbital-pretreated rats. Diethyl ether and fluroxene (Fluoromar) do not share this property in the rat. Studies in vitro show no enhancement of lipoperoxidation, but in this circumstance metabolism of the anesthetics is minimal. It is speculated that enhancement of metabolism of halothane and chloroform by phenobarbital induction is capable of fostering a peroxidative breakdown of hepatic microsomal polyenoic lipid esters.