Nitrous Oxide Analgesia

Nitrous Oxide offers comfort and alleviates anxiety. It is self-administered, acts quickly, and allows for rapid recovery, making it a good alternative for oral medications and opioids. 

The nitrous oxide and oxygen analgesia system delivers a safe mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen that you inhale through a mouthpiece or mask, allowing you to control your self-administration. Your doctor will instruct you to breathe normally through your mouth, and within a few short minutes, you will start to feel the effects of the gas mixture. You can expect the effects of nitrous oxide to wear off within 5-10 minutes after your last inhalation of the N2O/O2 mixture.

The nitrous oxide and oxygen ratio we provide is not strong enough to administer anesthesia or put you to sleep. You will hear and respond to any requests or directions from your provider.

Most patients report feeling relaxed, with their arms and legs feeling light. Some experience tingling in their extremities and describe sensations of floating or sinking. Because nitrous oxide is often called “laughing gas,” many patients become giggly when the gas mixture takes effect. Additionally, the administration may temporarily change your voice, as the vocal cords are affected by the nitrous oxide.

For most patients, the calming, relaxing effects of nitrous oxide will be felt within a minute or two or after a couple of deep inhalation/exhalation cycles. Effects may vary from patient to patient. Once you stop inhaling the gas mixture, you will start feeling back to normal within 5-10 minutes.

The procedure performed and other medications administered determine this. Nitrous oxide leaves your system within a few minutes. Therefore, if you meet all other discharge criteria, it is reasonable to safely go home about 10 minutes after you stop using nitrous oxide.

Nitrous oxide does not eliminate pain. This is important to understand and to set your expectations. This will also not replace an anesthetic, which is often used to numb locally (if required). Nitrous oxide is intended to help you relax, make you feel more comfortable, and reduce anxiety. This is not something you would use for extremely painful procedures.

For decades, medical providers have used nitrous oxide, establishing a long-standing safety record. When the Nitronox device is in use, you remain awake, responsive, and breathe normally on your own.

Nitrous oxide is ideal for hysterosalpingograms (HSGs), endometrial biopsies (EMBs), and vasectomies. It improves the patient experience by reducing discomfort and promoting relaxation.

Nitrous oxide has been used in medical settings for decades, but insurance typically doesn’t cover it. Instead, it is considered an optional add-on service for procedures. The cost for nitrous oxide is $100. Your healthcare team is available to assist you with any questions about adding nitrous to your procedure or treatment.