Inhalant anesthetics like isoflurane and sevoflurane are primarily eliminated how?

Inhalant anesthetics such as isoflurane and sevoflurane are primarily eliminated from the body through the lungs. During anesthesia, these agents are inhaled and are absorbed into the bloodstream via the alveoli in the lungs, allowing them to exert their effects on the central nervous system. As the animal metabolizes the anesthetic, it is also released back into the lungs to be expelled during exhalation.

This method of elimination is beneficial because it allows for rapid recovery from anesthesia once the inhaled agent is discontinued. The concentration of the anesthetic in the blood decreases quickly as the animal breathes out more of the gas, facilitating a faster return to normal consciousness and function.

Elimination through the kidneys or liver is characteristic of many other substances in the body, such as certain medications and metabolites, but it is not the primary route for inhalant anesthetics. The skin does play a minor role in the elimination of some volatile substances, but it does not significantly contribute to the overall process for inhalant anesthetics in veterinary practice.