Which anesthetic agent has the fastest elimination rate from the body?

Desflurane is recognized for having the fastest elimination rate from the body among the anesthetic agents listed. This rapid elimination is primarily due to its low blood solubility, which allows it to diffuse out of the bloodstream quickly after administration is ceased. As a result, patients recover consciousness more rapidly compared to those who have received other inhaled anesthetics, like sevoflurane or isoflurane, which have higher blood-gas partition coefficients and, therefore, longer elimination times.

Additionally, desflurane is unique because it is often given at lower concentrations for rapid offset and recovery times, making it particularly useful in outpatient surgical settings where quick recovery is a priority. Its molecular structure contributes to its characteristics, allowing for efficient ventilation and minimal accumulation in body tissues. This quality makes desflurane a preferred choice in many surgical cases where fast recovery from anesthesia is desired.