Question

In a homologous series of any general anesthetic, increasing the chain length increases the lipid solubility and produces a corresponding increase in anesthetic potency, is proposed by:

• A. John Pemberton
• B. Meyer - Overton
• C. Hubert Humphrey
• D. Meyer - Philip

Hint:

The Meyer-Overton hypothesis is fundamental in understanding how lipid solubility influences the potency of anesthetic agents.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Meyer-Overton correlation. The Meyer-Overton hypothesis states that the potency of general anesthetics is directly proportional to their lipid solubility. This means that as the lipid solubility of a compound increases (e.g., with increasing chain length in a homologous series), its anesthetic potency also increases. 

Step 2: Importance of lipid solubility in anesthetic action. Lipid solubility is critical for anesthetic agents because they must cross the lipid-rich membranes of nerve cells to exert their effect. The Meyer-Overton hypothesis highlights this relationship. 

Step 3: Why other options are incorrect. - (A) John Pemberton: Associated with Coca-Cola's invention, not anesthetics. 
- (C) Hubert Humphrey: A politician, unrelated to pharmacology or anesthetic theories. 
- (D) Meyer - Philip: Does not correspond to any theory in anesthetics.