Last reviewed · How we verify

Sevoflurane Inhalational Induction and Maintenance

Abbott · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Sevoflurane is a volatile anesthetic that depresses the central nervous system by enhancing inhibitory GABA neurotransmission and inhibiting excitatory glutamate signaling.

Sevoflurane is a volatile anesthetic that depresses the central nervous system by enhancing inhibitory GABA neurotransmission and inhibiting excitatory glutamate signaling. Used for Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in adult and pediatric patients undergoing surgery.

At a glance

Generic nameSevoflurane Inhalational Induction and Maintenance
Also known asABT-941, sevoflurane, Ultane, Sevorane, Sevofrane
SponsorAbbott
Drug classVolatile anesthetic agent
TargetGABA receptors, NMDA receptors, potassium channels
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesiology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Sevoflurane is a halogenated ether that acts as a general anesthetic by modulating multiple ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, primarily potentiating GABAergic inhibition while suppressing glutamatergic excitation. The exact molecular mechanism remains incompletely understood, but the net effect is rapid loss of consciousness and maintenance of anesthesia suitable for induction and ongoing anesthetic maintenance during surgery.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: