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suprane

Suprane (Desflurane) is a medication used to treat Pain.

Desflurane · by Baxter Hlthcare

Not yet rated· sourced from the FDA label
Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated June 7, 2026·How we rate
Verified againstopenFDANIH DailyMedRxClass

Key facts

Active ingredient
Desflurane
Form
Liquid
Strength
Desflurane 100%
Type
Prescription (Rx)
Brand or generic
Brand-name
May treat
pain
Manufacturer
Baxter Hlthcare
FDA application
NDA020118

What is Suprane?

From the FDA label:SUPRANE (desflurane, USP), a nonflammable liquid administered via vaporizer, is a general inhalation anesthetic. It is (±)1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether: Some physical constants are: Molecular weight 168.04 Specific gravity (at 20°C/4°C) 1.465 Vapor pressure in mm Hg 669 mm Hg @ 20°C 731 mm Hg @ 22°C 757 mm Hg @ 22.8°C (boiling point;1atm) 764 mm Hg @ 23°C 798 mm Hg @ 24°C 869 mm Hg @ 26°C Partition coefficients at 37°C: Blood/Gas 0.424 Olive Oil/Gas 18.7 Brain/Gas 0.54 Mean Component/Gas Partition Coefficients: Polypropylene (Y piece) 6.7 Polyethylene (circuit tube) 16.2 Latex rubber (bag) 19.3 Latex rubber (bellows) 10.4 Polyvinylchloride (endotracheal tube) 34.7 SUPRANE is nonflammable as defined by the requirements of International Electrotechnical Commission 601-2-13. SUPRANE is a colorless, volatile liquid below 22.8°C. Data indicate that SUPRANE is stable when stored under normal room lighting conditions according to instructions. SUPRANE is chemically stable. The only known degradation reaction is through prolonged direct contact with soda lime producing low levels of fluoroform (CHF 3 ). The amount of CHF 3 obtained is similar to that produced with MAC-equivalent doses of isoflurane. No discernible degradation occurs in the presence of strong acids. SUPRANE does not corrode stainless steel, brass, aluminum, anodized aluminum, nickel plated brass,…

How to use

Only persons trained in the administration of general anesthesia should administer SUPRANE. Only a vaporizer specifically designed and designated for use with desflurane should be utilized for its administration. Facilities for maintenance of a patent airway, artificial ventilation, oxygen enrichment, and circulatory resuscitation must be immediately available. SUPRANE is administered by inhalation. The administration of general anesthesia must be individualized based on the patient’s response. Hypotension and respiratory depression increase as anesthesia with SUPRANE is deepened. The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of SUPRANE decreases with increasing patient age. The MAC for SUPRANE is also reduced by concomitant N 2 O administration ( see Table 1 ). The dose should be adjusted accordingly. The following table provides mean relative potency based upon age and effect of N 2 O in predominately ASA physical status I or II patients. Benzodiazepines and opioids decrease the MAC of SUPRANE [ See Drug Interactions (7.1, Table 3) ]. SUPRANE also decreases the doses of neuromuscular blocking agents required [ See Drug Interactions (7.2, Table 4) ]. The dose should be adjusted accordingly. Table 1 Effect of Age on Minimum Alveolar Concentration of Desflurane Mean ± SD (percent atmospheres) Age N O 2 100% N N 2 O 60%/40% O 2 2 weeks 6 9.2 ± 0.0 - - 10 weeks 5 9.4 ± 0.4 - - 9…

Side effects

Most common adverse reactions (incidence> 10%) are coughing, breath holding, apnea, nausea, vomiting. (6) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Baxter Healthcare Corporation at 1-800-262-3784 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adverse event information is derived from controlled clinical trials, the majority of which were conducted in the United States. The studies were conducted using a variety of premedications, other anesthetics, and surgical procedures of varying length. Most adverse events reported were mild and transient, and may reflect the surgical procedures, patient characteristics (including disease) and/or medications administered. Of the 2,143 patients exposed to SUPRANE in clinical trials, 370 adults and 152 children were induced with desflurane alone and 987 patients were maintained principally with desflurane. The frequencies given reflect the percent of patients with the event. Each patient was counted once for each type of adverse event. They are presented in alphabetical order according to body system. Table 2 Frequency of Events Occurring in…

Warnings

Important safety information

Malignant Hyperthermia : Malignant hyperthermia may occur, especially in individuals with known or suspected susceptibility based on genetic factors or family history. Discontinue triggering agents, administer intravenous dantrolene sodium, and apply supportive therapies. ( 5.1 ) • Perioperative Hyperkalemia : Perioperative hyperkalemia may occur. Patients with latent or overt neuromuscular disease, particularly with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Early, aggressive intervention is recommended. ( 5.2 ) • Respiratory Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients : - Not approved for maintenance of anesthesia in non-intubated children due to an increased incidence of respiratory adverse reactions. Monitor and treat accordingly.( 5.3 ) - May cause airway narrowing and increased airway resistance in children with asthma or a history of recent upper airway infection. Monitor and treat accordingly.( 5.3 ) • QT Prolongation : Carefully monitor cardiac rhythm when administering SUPRANE to susceptible patients. ( 5.4 ) • Interactions with Desiccated Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Absorbents : May react with desiccated CO 2 absorbents to produce carbon monoxide. Replace desiccated CO 2 absorbent before administration of SUPRANE. ( 5.5 ) • Hepatobiliary Disorders : May cause sensitivity hepatitis in patients sensitized by previous exposure to halogenated anesthetics. Approach repeated anesthesia with caution. ( 5.6 ) • Pediatric Neurotoxicity : In developing animals, exposures greater than 3 hours cause neurotoxicity. Weigh benefits against potential risks when considering elective procedures in children under 3 years old. ( 5.7 ) • Postoperative Agitation in Children : May cause postoperative agitation during emergence from anesthesia in children. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Malignant Hyperthermia In susceptible individuals, volatile anesthetic agents, including desflurane, may trigger malignant hyperthermia, a skeletal muscle hypermetabolic state leading to high oxygen demand. Fatal outcomes of malignant hyperthermia have been reported. The risk of developing malignant hyperthermia increases with the concomitant administration of succinylcholine and volatile anesthetic agents. SUPRANE can induce malignant hyperthermia in patients with known or suspected susceptibility based on genetic factors or family history, including those with certain inherited ryanodine receptor ( RYR1 ) or dihydropyridine receptor ( CACNA1S ) variants. [see Contraindications (4) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.5) ] Signs consistent with malignant hyperthermia may include hyperthermia, hypoxia, hypercapnia, muscle rigidity (e.g., jaw muscle spasm), tachycardia (e.g., particularly that unresponsive to deepening anesthesia or analgesic medication administration), tachypnea, cyanosis, arrhythmias, hypovolemia, and hemodynamic instability. Skin mottling, coagulopathies, and renal failure may occur later in the course of the hypermetabolic process. Successful treatment of malignant hyperthermia depends on early recognition of the clinical signs. If malignant hyperthermia is suspected, discontinue all triggering agents (i.e., volatile anesthetic agents and succinylcholine), administer intravenous dantrolene sodium, and initiate supportive therapies. Consult prescribing information for intravenous dantrolene sodium for additional information on patient management. Supportive therapies include administration of supplemental oxygen and respiratory support based on clinical need, maintenance of hemodynamic stability and adequate urinary output, management of fluid and electrolyte balance, correction of acid basederangements, and institution of measures to control rising temperature. 5.2 Perioperative Hyperkalemia Use of inhaled anesthetic agents has been associated with rare increases in serum potassium levels that have resulted in cardiac arrhythmias and death in pediatric patients during the postoperative period. Patients with latent as well as overt neuromuscular disease, particularly Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Concomitant use of succinylcholine has been associated with most, but not all, of these cases. These patients also experienced significant elevations in serum creatinine kinase levels and, in some cases, changes in urine consistent with myoglobinuria. Despite the similarity in presentation to malignant hyperthermia, none of these patients exhibited signs or symptoms of muscle rigidity or hypermetabolic state. Early and aggressive intervention to treat the hyperkalemia and resistant arrhythmias is recommended, as is subsequent evaluation for latent neuromuscular disease. 5.3 Respiratory Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients SUPRANE is not approved for maintenance of anesthesia in non-intubated children due to an increased incidence of respiratory adverse reactions, including coughing, laryngospasm and secretions [ See Clinical Studies (14.5) ]. Children, particularly if 6 years old or younger, who are under an anesthetic maintenance of SUPRANE delivered via laryngeal mask airway (LMA™ mask) are at increased risk for adverse respiratory reactions, e.g., coughing and laryngospasm, especially with removal of the laryngeal mask airway under deep anesthesia [ See Clinical Studies (14.5) ]. Therefore, closely monitor these patients for signs and symptoms associated with laryngospasm and treat accordingly. When SUPRANE is used for maintenance of anesthesia in children with asthma or a history of recent upper airway infection, there is an increased risk for airway narrowing and increases in airway resistance. Therefore, closely monitor these patients for signs and symptoms associated with airway narrowing and treat accordingly . 5.4 QT Prolongation QT prolongation, associated with torsade de pointes, has been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. Carefully monitor cardiac rhythm when administering SUPRANE to susceptible patients (e.g., patients with congenital Long QT Syndrome or patients taking drugs that can prolong the QT interval). 5.5 Interactions with Desiccated Carbon Dioxide Absorbents Desflurane like some other inhalation anesthetics, can react with desiccated carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) absorbents to produce carbon monoxide that may result in elevated levels of carboxyhemoglobin in some patients. Case reports suggest that barium hydroxide lime and soda lime become desiccated when fresh gases are passed through the CO 2 canister at high flow rates over many hours or days. When a clinician suspects that CO 2 absorbent may be desiccated, it should be replaced before the administration of SUPRANE. 5.6 Hepatobiliary Disorders With the use of halogenated anesthetics, disruption of hepatic function, icterus and fatal liver necrosis have been reported; such reactions appear to indicate hypersensitivity. As with other halogenated anesthetic agents, SUPRANE may cause sensitivity hepatitis in patients who have been sensitized by previous exposure to halogenated anesthetics [ See Contraindications (4) ]. Cirrhosis, viral hepatitis or other pre-existing hepatic disease may be a reason to select an anesthetic other than a halogenated anesthetic. As with all halogenated anesthetics, repeated anesthesia within a short period of time should be approached with caution. 5.7 Pediatric Neurotoxicity Published animal studies demonstrate that the administration of anesthetic and sedation drugs that block NMDA receptors and/or potentiate GABA activity increase neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain and result in long-term cognitive deficits when used for longer than 3 hours. The clinical significance of these findings is not clear. However, based on the available data, the window of vulnerability to these changes is believed to correlate with exposures in the third trimester of gestation through the first several months of life, but may extend out to approximately three years of age in humans. [ See Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.4 ), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2) ]. Some…

Who should not take Suprane

The use of SUPRANE is contraindicated in the following conditions: • Known or suspected genetic susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.5) ] . • Patients in whom general anesthesia is contraindicated. • Induction of anesthesia in pediatric patients. • Patients with known sensitivity to SUPRANE or to other halogenated agents [ See Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. • Patients with a history of moderate to severe hepatic dysfunction following anesthesia with SUPRANE or other halogenated agents and not otherwise explained [ See Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. • Patients with known or suspected genetic susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia ( 4 ) • Patients in whom general anesthesia is contraindicated ( 4 ) • Induction of anesthesia in pediatric patients ( 4 ) • Patients with known sensitivity to halogenated agents ( 4 ) • Patients with a history of moderate to severe hepatic dysfunction following anesthesia with halogenated agents and not otherwise explained. ( 4 )

Overdose — what happens if you take too much

The symptoms of overdosage of SUPRANE can present as a deepening of anesthesia, cardiac and/or respiratory depression in spontaneously breathing patients, and cardiac depression in ventilated patients in whom hypercapnia and hypoxia may occur only at a late stage. In the event of overdosage, or suspected overdosage, take the following actions: discontinue administration of SUPRANE, maintain a patent airway, initiate assisted or controlled ventilation with oxygen, and maintain adequate cardiovascular function.

U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.

Interactions

No clinically significant adverse interactions with commonly used preanesthetic drugs, or drugs used during anesthesia (muscle relaxants, intravenous agents, and local anesthetic agents) were reported in clinical trials. The effect of SUPRANE on the disposition of other drugs has not been determined. Similar to isoflurane, SUPRANE does not predispose to premature ventricular arrhythmias in the presence of exogenously infused epinephrine in swine. • Concomitant use of N 2 O, benzodiazepines and/or opioids reduces the MAC of SUPRANE. Adjust dose accordingly. ( 7.1 , 7.3 ) • SUPRANE decreases the doses of neuromuscular blocking agents required. Adjust dose accordingly. (7.2) 7.1 Benzodiazepines and Opioids (MAC Reduction) Benzodiazepines and opioids decrease the amount of desflurane (MAC) needed to produce anesthesia. This effect is shown in Table 3 for intravenous midazolam (25-50 µg/kg) and intravenous fentanyl (3-6 µg/kg) in patients of two different age groups. Table 3 SUPRANE MAC with Fentanyl or Midazolam Mean ± SD (percent reduction) Dose 18-30 years 31-65 years No fentanyl 6.4 ± 0.0 6.3 ± 0.4 3 µg/kg fentanyl 3.5 ± 1.9 (46%) 3.1 ± 0.6 (51%) 6 µg/kg fentanyl 3.0 ± 1.2 (53%) 2.3 ± 1.0 (64%) No midazolam 6.9 ± 0.1 5.9 ± 0.6 25 µg/kg midazolam - 4.9 ± 0.9 (16%) 50 µg/kg midazolam - 4.9 ± 0.5 (17%) 7.2 Neuromuscular Blocking Agents Anesthetic concentrations of desflurane at equilibrium (administered for 15 or more minutes before testing) reduced the ED 95 of succinylcholine by approximately 30% and that of atracurium and pancuronium by approximately 50% compared to N 2 O/opioid anesthesia ( see Table 4 ). The effect of desflurane on duration of nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockade has not been studied. Table 4 Dosage of Muscle Relaxant Causing 95% Depression in Neuromuscular Blockade Desflurane Concentration Mean ED 95 (µg/kg) Pancuronium Atracurium Succinylcholine Vecuronium 0.65 MAC 60% N 2 O/O 2 26 133 - - 1.25 MAC 60% N 2 O/O 2 18 119 - - 1.25 MAC O 2 22 120 360 19 Dosage reduction of neuromuscular blocking agents during induction of anesthesia may result in delayed onset of conditions suitable for endotracheal intubation or inadequate muscle relaxation, because potentiation of neuromuscular blocking agents requires equilibration of muscle with the delivered partial pressure of SUPRANE. Among nondepolarizing drugs, pancuronium, atracurium, and vecuronium interactions have been studied. In the absence of specific guidelines: 1. For endotracheal intubation, do not reduce the dose of nondepolarizing muscle relaxants or succinylcholine. 2. During maintenance of anesthesia, the dose of nondepolarizing muscle relaxants is likely to be reduced compared to that during N 2 O/opioid anesthesia. Administration of supplemental doses of muscle relaxants should be guided by the response to nerve stimulation. 7.3 Concomitant use with N 2 O Concomitant administration of N 2 O reduces the MAC of SUPRANE [ See Dosage and Administration (2), Table 1 ].

May treat (source: NIH RxClass)

Dosage forms

Liquid

The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.

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Frequently asked questions

What does Suprane treat?
Suprane (Desflurane) may be used to treat pain, based on NIH RxClass drug-classification data (conditions a drug may treat — not a verbatim copy of the FDA-approved label). This is general reference, not medical advice.
Is there a coupon or discount for Suprane?
pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Suprane. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
Who makes Suprane?
Suprane is marketed by Baxter Hlthcare. You can see Baxter Hlthcare's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
Is Suprane a brand-name or generic drug?
Suprane is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Desflurane.
Is Suprane available over the counter?
No. Suprane is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
What forms does Suprane come in?
Suprane is currently marketed as liquid, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
Is Suprane FDA-registered?
Suprane is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA020118. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
Is Suprane safe?
There's no single safe-or-not verdict, and we don't yet have a composite recall-safety score for Suprane. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings below, and always consult a licensed professional.
What are the side effects of Suprane?
Suprane's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: Most common adverse reactions (incidence> 10%) are coughing, breath holding, apnea, nausea, vomiting. (6) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Baxter Healthcare Corporation at 1-800-262-3784 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.

Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.

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