What type of analgesic is methoxyflurane classified as?

Methoxyflurane is classified as an inhaled analgesic. This classification is based on its method of administration and its pharmacological action. Inhaled analgesics are typically delivered via inhalation, allowing them to quickly enter the bloodstream through the lungs and provide rapid pain relief. Methoxyflurane specifically acts by depressing the central nervous system and modifying the perception of pain, making it particularly effective in pre-hospital settings for managing acute pain.

The inhaled route allows for ease of use, particularly in emergency situations, where quick administration and onset are crucial. This is in contrast to topical analgesics, which are applied to the skin; injectable analgesics, which are delivered via injection; and oral analgesics, which are consumed and absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. Each of these other methods has different indications and uses, but they do not apply to methoxyflurane.