Pharmacology - Nitrous Oxide

Pharmacology - Nitrous Oxide 
Nitrous oxide has the ability to depress the central nervous system and cause unconsciousness (when combined with other anesthetics). This is analgesia. To feel euphoric.

Method of Operation 
Lowers the amount of NMDA receptor channels that are opened. TREK-1 potassium channels are opened more frequently as a result. (There is no effect on the GABAA receptors.) Oxygen antagonists have been shown to limit analgesic activity, which suggests that endogenous opioids are being distributed.

It is administered by inhalation. Because of the low blood/gas partition coefficient, the onset and offset of action occur as quickly as possible. Eliminated without any change through the lungs. There is no metabolism.

Use in Clinical Settings 
General anesthesia is administered. Due to its low potency, it is not capable of producing complete surgical anesthesia on its own; therefore, it must be coupled with drugs that have a higher potency. In subanesthetic doses, which are used as an analgesic for childbirth and for the relief of pain in emergency situations (for example, by paramedics).

​Adverse Effects
There are hardly many adverse consequences. In order to prevent the occurrence of "diffusion anoxia," oxygen may be necessary during the healing process.