Volatile anesthetic compositions and methods of use

摘要

The present invention provides methods for reducing pain in a subject in need thereof by delivering a volatile anesthetic in a solution or an emulsion that can additionally include an extractive solvent, for example, DMSO or NMP, in an amount effective to reduce pain without substantially interfering with motor function. Chronic or acute pain may be treated, or the volatile anesthetic may be delivered as a regional anesthetic to a subject to anesthetize a portion the subject prior to a surgery. In certain embodiments, isoflurane, halothane, enflurane, sevoflurane, desflurane, methoxyflurane, or mixtures thereof may be used. Dosing regimens including a one-time administration, continuous and/or periodic administration are contemplated.