Inhalation anesthetics are drugs that induce general anesthesia upon inhalation. They work by increasing the sensitivity of GABA_A receptors or inhibiting NMDA receptors, leading to a decrease in central nervous system activity. The depth of anesthesia can be rapidly adjusted by changing the concentration of the inhaled gas. Some common examples of inhalational anesthetics include volatile liquids like isoflurane, desflurane, sevoflurane and gases like xenon and nitrous oxide. Isoflurane, a halogenated volatile liquid, can cause dose-dependent hypotension and has a pungent odor. Desflurane, with its low blood solubility, offers rapid onset and recovery and is often used for short procedures. Sevoflurane, known for its low pungency, is commonly used for inhalation induction, especially in pediatric patients. Nitrous oxide, a nonirritating sedative, is frequently combined with oxygen for moderate sedation.

These agents have steep dose-response curves and narrow therapeutic indices ranging from 2 to 4. Their potency is determined by the minimum alveolar concentration, which can be influenced by factors such as age, temperature, and concurrent use of other drugs. However, they also have potential adverse effects, including hypotension, respiratory irritation, and organ toxicity. Malignant hyperthermia, a rare but potentially fatal condition, can be triggered by exposure to halogenated hydrocarbon anesthetics. In addition, the metabolism of these anesthetics can generate toxic metabolites, leading to their replacement with less toxic alternatives. Notably, there are concerns about their environmental impact. As greenhouse gases, they contribute to global warming and climate change, prompting efforts to minimize their use and release into the atmosphere. The selection of an inhalational anesthetic involves balancing the patient's pathophysiology against the drug's side-effect profile, aiming to maintain a constant and optimal brain partial pressure of the inhaled anesthetic.