THE ROLE OF THE LIVER IN DRUG METABOLISM ANAESTHESIA TUTORIAL OF THE WEEK 179

Before continuing, try to answer the following questions. The answers can be found at the end of the article, together with an explanation. 1. Sevoflurane is metabolised by hepatic microsomes 2. Propofol is hydrolysed by esterases. 3. Chronic barbiturate therapy will induce the drug enzyme system for metabolism of halothane 4. Cigarette smoking influences the choice of volatile agent for maintenance of anaesthesia. 5. Sulphation is an example of a phase 1 reaction. 6. Metabolism of halothane is predominately by reduction if the liver is hypoxic