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Oxygen/nitrous oxide equimolar mix
An equimolar mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide provides rapid analgesia and anxiolysis through nitrous oxide's effects on central nervous system receptors while maintaining adequate oxygenation.
An equimolar mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide provides rapid analgesia and anxiolysis through nitrous oxide's effects on central nervous system receptors while maintaining adequate oxygenation. Used for Acute pain relief in emergency settings, Anxiolysis and analgesia during minor procedures, Trauma pain management.
At a glance
| Generic name | Oxygen/nitrous oxide equimolar mix |
|---|---|
| Also known as | MEOPA |
| Sponsor | Hospital St. Joseph, Marseille, France |
| Drug class | Inhalational anesthetic/analgesic gas mixture |
| Target | NMDA receptor antagonist; endogenous opioid system modulation |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Anesthesia; Acute Pain Management |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Nitrous oxide acts as a dissociative anesthetic and analgesic by modulating NMDA receptors and releasing endogenous opioids, while the oxygen component ensures adequate tissue oxygenation and prevents hypoxia. This combination is commonly used for acute pain relief and anxiolysis in emergency and procedural settings, with rapid onset and offset due to the gases' pharmacokinetic properties.
Approved indications
- Acute pain relief in emergency settings
- Anxiolysis and analgesia during minor procedures
- Trauma pain management
Common side effects
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Euphoria or dissociation
- Headache
- Transient paresthesias
Key clinical trials
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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