Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Dioxide is a medical gas used primarily as an insufflation agent during minimally invasive surgical procedures such as laparoscopy to expand and visualize body cavities. It is also utilized in certain diagnostic procedures and respiratory function tests. Medical-grade carbon dioxide is administered under professional supervision to ensure patient safety.
Medical carbon dioxide is primarily used to inflate body cavities during minimally invasive surgeries and diagnostic procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- V03AN02
- RxNorm
- 2034
- Generic
- Carbon Dioxide
- Class
- atc-v03
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Carbon dioxide is used for insufflation during laparoscopic surgeries and endoscopic procedures to create working space in the abdominal or thoracic cavity. It is also employed in carbon dioxide laser procedures and certain pulmonary function tests.
When introduced into body cavities, carbon dioxide gas expands the tissues, providing visibility and working space for surgical instruments. It is rapidly absorbed by tissues and has good solubility in blood, allowing for efficient elimination through respiration.
Medical-grade carbon dioxide must be used under controlled conditions. While naturally present in the body, elevated concentrations can displace oxygen and cause adverse effects. Patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions may require special consideration. The gas is typically administered and monitored by trained healthcare professionals during procedures.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 29, 2026. · Read our editorial policy