Exploring Nitrous Oxide as Treatment of Mood Disorders: Basic Concepts.

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is being studied as a fast-acting antidepressant for treatment-resistant major depression, but most psychiatrists are unfamiliar with its medical administration and regulations. This review educates psychiatrists on nitrous oxide's pharmacology and administration basics, and addresses common misconceptions about the gas.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) has shown early promise as a rapidly acting antidepressant in patients with treatment-resistant major depression and is currently investigated in several clinical trials. Because nitrous oxide is rarely administered outside operating rooms or dental practices, most psychiatrists are not familiar with how nitrous oxide is administered in a medical setting and what regulations guide its use. The goal of this brief review was to educate psychiatrists about the basic concepts of nitrous oxide administration and pharmacology. Furthermore, common misconceptions about nitrous oxide will be discussed.