Question

What is the effect of volatile anesthetics on skeletal muscle?

Increase in muscle contraction strength
Decrease in muscle contraction strength
No effect on muscle contraction
Induction of muscle spasms

Answer 1

Volatile anesthetics decrease muscle contraction strength by inhibiting calcium release in muscle cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Volatile anesthetics have been found to decrease muscle contraction strength. These anesthetics interfere with the release of calcium ions in the muscle cells, which is necessary for the contraction process. By inhibiting calcium release, volatile anesthetics reduce the ability of skeletal muscle to contract effectively. For example, halothane and isoflurane have been shown to decrease muscle contraction strength in laboratory studies.