MadSci Network: NeuroScience |
The exact mechanism of action of anesthetic agents remains unknown. There are numerous theories none of which is entirely satisfactory. The classic inhalation anesthetic agents have an ether chemical linkage and are capable of producing a true anesthetic state as demonstrated publicly by Dr. Morton in 1846 using diethyl ether.
Many of the intravenous agents such as thiopental(Pentothal) produce sleep but not a true surgical anesthetic state. Regardless of the theory most researchers would agree that all such drugs in some way alter cell membranes so that incoming stimuli are blocked and the mechanism is entirely (fortunately) reversible within wide limits at least for the ethers.
Local anesthetics act directly on the cell membranes of peripheral nerves and totally block the transmission of electrical impulses generated by stimuli painful or otherwise. Even though not completely understood the discovery of anesthesia ranks with the greatest of mankind's achievments. I would argue it is mankind's greatest achievment.
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