Which parameter is important in determining the potency of inhaled anesthetics?

Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) is the key parameter used to assess the potency of inhaled anesthetics. MAC is defined as the concentration of an inhaled anesthetic in the alveoli required to prevent movement in response to surgical stimulation in 50% of patients. This measure provides insight into how effective an anesthetic will be at producing general anesthesia; a lower MAC value indicates a more potent anesthetic, as it requires a smaller concentration to achieve the desired anesthetic effect.

While plasma concentration can influence the effects of inhaled anesthetics, it is not the most direct measure of potency. Average blood pressure and duration of action relate to the anesthetic's effects and pharmacokinetics, rather than its inherent potency. Therefore, understanding MAC is crucial for clinicians to determine the appropriate dosage and to establish the comparative potency of various inhaled anesthetics in clinical settings.