An evaluation of carbon dioxide as a short acting anesthetic

The use of carbon dioxide (CO₂) as a quick-acting anesthetic of short duration was studied. Sixteen rats were exposed to a CO₂ atmosphere for 10 and15 sec on separate days. Records were taken of the time required for the administration of intramuscular and gavage injections as well as recovery of motor functions. Recovery following both exposure times was less than 2 min Data are presented that show that there are no prograde effects of CO₂: exposure on subsequent variable-interval (VI-15 sec) behavior.