Malignant Hyperthermia: Trigger Medications

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The following provide some topline guidance on potential MH triggers. Please note the list is not exhaustive.

Potent/volatile gaseous inhalation anesthetics are MH triggers. These anesthetics include:

 

  • sevoflurane
  • desflurane
  • isoflurane
  • halothane
  • enflurane
  • methoxyflurane
  • succinylcholine (Anectine)

 

Commonly anesthetics/sedatives and other drugs used in anesthesia that are NOT considered MH triggers include:

  • propofol
  • barbiturates
  • narcotics
  • benzodiazepines
  • ketamine
  • etomidate
  • nitrous oxide (not a potent inhalation anesthetic)
  • local/regional anesthetics
  • monitored anesthesia care (local anesthesia plus sedation)

For more information, please visit The Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States Website


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