Drug Name:Nitrous Oxide
Drug Class:Inhalation Anesthetic
Mechanism of Action:Binds to GABA receptors and enhances inhibitory neurotransmission
Use:
  • Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia
  • Analgesia during minor surgical procedures
  • Adjunct to other anesthetics
  • Recreational use as a dissociative drug
Side Effects:
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness and lightheadedness
  • Headache
  • Sedation
  • Hypotension
  • Respiratory depression
  • Potential for abuse and addiction
Contraindications:
  • Pregnancy
  • Increased intracranial pressure
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • History of substance abuse
Specialty:
  • Anesthesiology
  • Dentistry
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Recreational Drug Use