Virtues of Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is notable because of its impeccable safety record, which has withstood the test of time longer than any other drug. For the patient, nitrous oxygen/oxygen sedation provides pain control and anxiety relief that is quickly and easily reversed. It is virtually completely eliminated from the body when its use is discontinued.

For the practitioner, the drug is easily titrated to the level required for the procedure while accommodating the patient's  physiologic and psychologic needs. When used as a mild analgesic and sedative, nitrous oxide is administered with oxygen from safe, modern equipment that allows no more than 70% nitrous oxide and no less than 30% oxygen to be delivered at any time.

The patient is mildly sedated and responds to verbal commands. Protective defenses such as the cough and gag reflexes remain intact; clinical action and elimination are rapid. Recovery is complete within a short time.

Few side effects are associated with nitrous oxide, provided the operator uses updated equipment and an appropriate technique. Most often, patients' negative experiences with nitrous oxide have been caused by oversedation by the operator. To that end, this text will emphasize the titration aspect of the administration technique.

Nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation is still simple and safe to use. It may not provide the desired results for all practitioners, nor will it be an option for all patients; however, it continues to maintain its position for effective pain and anxiety management.

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