Nitrogen
Nitrogen, in its liquid form, is a cryogenic agent used in dermatological and medical procedures to freeze and destroy abnormal or unwanted tissue. It is primarily utilized for treating various skin conditions including warts, actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions), and other benign growths. Medical nitrogen is administered by healthcare professionals using specialized application methods such as spray or cotton swab techniques.
Liquid nitrogen is a cryotherapy agent used by healthcare professionals to freeze and destroy abnormal skin tissue like warts and precancerous lesions.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- V03AN04
- RxNorm
- 7456
- Generic
- Nitrogen
- Class
- atc-v03
- Brands
- Ulspira, Noxivent, INOmax
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- 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.
Treatment of common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, actinic keratoses (precancerous skin lesions), seborrheic keratoses, molluscum contagiosum, and other benign dermatological conditions requiring tissue destruction.
Liquid nitrogen rapidly freezes tissue at approximately -196°C, causing ice crystal formation within and between cells. This leads to cellular dehydration, protein denaturation, and disruption of cell membrane integrity, resulting in controlled cell death and tissue destruction. The frozen tissue eventually sloughs off as it heals.
Should only be administered by trained healthcare professionals. Common side effects include blistering, pain, swelling, and temporary skin discoloration at the treatment site. Requires specialized cryogenic storage and handling equipment. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary for complete resolution. Contraindicated in patients with cold intolerance, cryoglobulinemia, or poor circulation.
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