Home
Resources
Publications
Biologic Effects of Nitrous Oxide: A Mechanistic and Toxicologic Review

Biologic Effects of Nitrous Oxide: A Mechanistic and Toxicologic Review

Robert D Sanders, Jörg Weimann, Mervyn Maze

Anesthesiology. 2008 Oct;109(4):707-22.

PMID: 18813051

Abstract:

Nitrous oxide is the longest serving member of the anesthesiologist's pharmacologic armamentarium but remains a source of controversy because of fears over its adverse effects. Recently, the Evaluation of Nitrous oxide In a Gas Mixture for Anaesthesia (ENIGMA) trial reported that nitrous oxide use increases postoperative complications; further preclinical reports have suggested that nitrous oxide may contribute to neurocognitive dysfunction in the young and elderly. Therefore, nitrous oxide's longevity in anesthetic practice is under threat. In this article, the authors discuss the evidence for the putative toxicity of nitrous oxide, from either patient or occupational exposure, within the context of the mechanism of nitrous oxide's action. Although it would seem prudent to avoid nitrous oxide in certain vulnerable populations, current evidence in support of a more widespread prescription from clinical practice is unconvincing.

Chemicals Related in the Paper:

Catalog Number	Product Name	Structure	CAS Number	Price
AP4441127	Trimorpholinophosphine oxide		4441-12-7	Price

As a specialist in analytical chemical Products, Alfa Chemistry offers consumers a wealth of raw materials and a full range of technologies and services.

QUICK LINKS

HEADQUARTERS

Tel:

Fax:

Email: