Method for cardioprotection and neuroprotection by intravenous administration of halogenated volatile anesthetics

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Provided is a method of treating a patient having a tissue that is subject to an ischemic event. The method is conducted by parenterally administering a formulation containing a halogenated volatile anesthetic in an amount effective to improve the tissue's resistance to or tolerance of the ischemic event. In preferred embodiment of the invention the amount of the formulation , administered to the patient is sub-anesthetic. The formulation can be administered prior to, concurrently with or after the ischemic event. The , method can be used for example, for treatment of patients having myocardial or neuronal tissue that is subject to an ischemic event.