Canada's Ismael Koné uses Penthrox inhaler before World Cup injury exit

Canada’s Ismael Koné was seen using a Penthrox inhaler during his team’s World Cup match against Qatar. The midfielder later underwent surgery for a broken leg and will miss the rest of the tournament. Penthrox is a pain relief medication that acts quickly and does not contain opioids. Penthrox was first created in the 1960s in the US as a general anaesthetic. It works as a mix of an anaesthetic and a painkiller, sometimes causing laughter in users. Relief begins after six to 12 breaths and can last up to an hour.

The medication is self-administered through an inhaler. Its effects stop if the patient cannot hold the device. Health Canada approved it in 2022, and it is also used in Australia and New Zealand. However, it is not approved in the US due to toxicity concerns linked to an older version.

Penthrox is not suitable for patients with liver or kidney problems. Despite its benefits, these restrictions limit its use in certain cases. Koné’s use of Penthrox during the match highlighted its role in managing acute pain. His injury now ends his tournament participation. The medication remains an option for short-term pain relief in approved regions under specific conditions.