Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is an inhaled anesthetic gas commonly known as 'laughing gas' that provides analgesia and mild anesthesia for various medical and dental procedures. It works rapidly with quick onset and recovery, making it particularly useful for short procedures and as an adjunct to other anesthetics. It is frequently used in dentistry, labor analgesia, and minor surgical procedures.
Nitrous oxide is an inhaled anesthetic gas used for analgesia and sedation during medical and dental procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N01AX13
- RxNorm
- 7486
- Generic
- Nitrous Oxide
- Class
- atc-n01
- 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.
Used for procedural sedation and analgesia in dentistry, minor surgical procedures, labor and delivery, and as an adjunct to other anesthetic agents. It is particularly valuable for anxious patients and short-duration procedures.
Nitrous oxide works by depressing the central nervous system through modulation of neurotransmitter release, primarily affecting GABA and glutamate systems. It provides anxiolytic, analgesic, and mild anesthetic effects when inhaled in a mixture with oxygen.
Administered via inhalation with oxygen using specialized delivery systems. Patients remain conscious but feel relaxed and experience reduced pain sensation. Contraindicated in patients with certain respiratory conditions, vitamin B12 deficiency, and during early pregnancy. Long-term or recreational use may cause neurological complications.
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