In vivo spin-trap study on anaerobic dehalogenation of halothane.

Radical formation in vivo by anaerobic dehalogenation of halothane is described in this paper. The radicals were stabilized by spin-trapping and assayed by electron spin resonance spectrometry. The radical adducts were formed by inhalation of halothane in vivo and increased with decrease in inspired oxygen concentration. Following administration of the spin-trap, the expired concentration of CF2CHCl and CF3CH2Cl which are the anaerobic metabolites of halothane decreased, but bilious trifluoroacetate which are aerobic did not change. These results strongly suggest that radical intermediates are produced in anaerobic dehalogenation of halothane to CF2CHCl and CF3CH2Cl.