Compound Monograph
Cyclopropane
Cyclopropane is the simplest cyclic hydrocarbon, a gas once used as a general anaesthetic.
Where Does It Come From?
Cyclopropane is a cycloalkane. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Cyclopropane is the simplest cyclic hydrocarbon, a three-carbon ring that exists as a gas. It was once used as an inhaled general anaesthetic, valued for acting quickly and smoothly, but its use was abandoned because it is highly flammable and explosive in the concentrations required, which made it dangerous in operating theatres. It is now of mainly historical and chemical interest.
Toxicity & Safety
The chief hazard of cyclopropane is its extreme flammability and explosiveness as an anaesthetic gas, which is the principal reason it fell out of medical use. As an anaesthetic it carries the general risks of suppressing consciousness and breathing. It is not used in modern practice.