Ask A Scientist Chemistry Archive

(Created prior to 1993)

Question: How exactly does Chloroform, (probably not spelled correctly) 
work.  Why do doctors not use it any more, are there any health hazards?  Are 
the gasses what causes one to sleep when sniffed or the liquid? 
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I think we talked a little bit about anesthetics in a previous 
question, but not about chloroform.  I believe that chloroform has been found 
to be a mild carcinogen (a substance which can cause cancers) and that this is 
why it is not used anymore.  I believe that chloroform was administered in gas 
form, but I suppose that this was mostly a matter of convenience rather than 
necessity.
Topper
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