Update for nurse anesthetists--part 3--cyclodextrin introduction to anesthesia practice: form, function, and application.

Cyclodextrins, some of the select molecules exhibiting properties that are beneficial across multiple industries, are naturally occurring cyclical oligosaccharides with a lipophilic inner cavity and a hydrophilic exterior. These characteristics enable cyclodextrins to surround and bind lipophilic molecules while maintaining aqueous solubility. Agrochemistry, analytical chemistry, food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries have benefited and continue to benefit from these unique molecular properties. Though known and studied for more than 100 years, cyclodextrins have only recently been explored for specific application to anesthesia. Numerous studies exploring cyclodextrin-improved anesthetic delivery are underway. This new class of enabling molecules will enter the anesthetic arena and will require an understanding of their form, function, and application. This knowledge will facilitate anesthesia providers' optimal use of these unique molecules and the safety and efficacy associated with them.