How Long Does Isoflurane Last?

16.1 Safety and Handling Occupational Caution The following reactions have been reported following occupational exposure to isoflurane: dyspnea, bronchospasm, stridor, cough, dizziness, paresthesia, hepatic reactions, flushing rash, contact dermatitis, erythema, periorbital edema, eye irritation, conjunctival hyperemia, and headache. There is no specific work exposure limit established for Isoflurane USP. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NIOSH) recommends that no worker should be exposed at ceiling concentrations greater than 2 ppm of any halogenated anesthetic agent over a sampling period not to exceed one hour. The predicted effects of acute overexposure by inhalation of Isoflurane USP include headache, dizziness or (in extreme cases) unconsciousness [see Overdosage (10) ]. There are no documented adverse effects of chronic exposure to halogenated anesthetic vapors ( W aste A nesthetic G ases or WAGs) in the workplace. Although results of some epidemiological studies suggest a link between exposure to halogenated anesthetics and increased health problems (particularly spontaneous abortion), the relationship is not conclusive. Since exposure to WAGs is one possible factor in the findings for these studies, operating room personnel, and pregnant women in particular, should minimize exposure. Precautions include adequate general ventilation in the operating room, the use of a well-designed and well-maintained scavenging system,