The use of desflurane and nitrous oxide for anesthesia in the US has been declining since 2018 due to their significant climate impact as greenhouse gases. Anesthesiologist Seema Gandhi and the American Society of Anesthesiologists have been advocating for reduced emissions and increased awareness of anesthesia's environmental effects. However, some argue against eliminating desflurane, citing its importance for patient care and the lack of a universal anesthetic agent. Critics of the drug's climate impact have ties to its manufacturer, Baxter International, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Implementing regulations similar to those in the EU could be a more effective strategy for the US to address these environmental concerns. This matters because reducing the environmental impact of medical practices is crucial in the fight against climate change.
