Desflurane is a new volatile, inhaled anaesthetic that differs significantly from presently available inhaled agents in being halogenated solely with fluorine. This fluorination produces a lower solubility and increased resistance to biodegradation. The lower solubility provides a more precise control over, and a more rapid awakening from, anaesthesia. The resistance to biodegradation suggests that toxicity from desflurane may be minimal or non-existent. Limitations include a lesser potency and greater pungency at concentrations exceeding 1 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC). Other pharmacological properties are similar to those of isoflurane.