ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/isoflurane
Isoflurane
IsoFlo, Forane
Drug Class
Routes
Indications
Mechanism of Action
Enhances inhibitory GABA-A receptors and blocks excitatory NMDA receptors, producing dose-dependent general anesthesia.
Side effects & warnings
Most commonly used inhalant anesthetic in veterinary medicine. Dose-dependent hypotension. Minimal hepatic metabolism. Use with precision vaporizer only. Suitable for all species including exotics.
Species with Isoflurane dosing data (5 dose rules)
Species references:All African Grey Parrot drugsAll Bearded Dragon drugsAll Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugsAll Rabbit (Domestic) drugs
Evidence levels across 5 dose rules
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
Backed by 2 published sources
- · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
- · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Sample dosing (2 of 5 cited rules)
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 5 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
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View PlansArticles mentioning Isoflurane
- Reptile Dystocia (Egg-Binding): Medical and Surgical ManagementHow to distinguish obstructive from non-obstructive dystocia in lizards and snakes — and when oxytocin and calcium are appropriate vs when they are dangerous.
- Anesthesia in Exotic Companion Animals: A Practical OverviewInhalational and injectable anesthesia choices for rabbits, guinea pigs, parrots, and reptiles — and what species-specific physiology should change in your protocol.
- Ball Python Drug Dosing: A Vet's ReferenceAntibiotic, antiparasitic, and supportive-care dosing for Python regius — and the snake-specific physiology that drives the choices.
- Guinea Pig Drug Dosing: A Vet Quick ReferenceAntibiotic, analgesic, and antifungal dosing for Cavia porcellus — and why they're not just small rabbits.
- African Grey Parrot Drug Dosing: A Vet ReferenceAntibiotic, antifungal, and supportive-care dosing for Psittacus erithacus — and the avian-specific physiology that should change your prescribing.
More Anesthetic drugs
Source citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.