Nitrogen oxides - Benefits, dosage and side effects

nitrous oxide or nitric oxide is a gas that is given with a breathing apparatus to treat respiratory failure in newborns, especially babies born prematurely.

Nitrogen oxides work by widening the blood vessels in the lungs, so that air flows to and from the lungs more smoothly. Nitrogen oxides can only be given indoors neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Nitrogen oxide trademark: -

What's that Nitrogen Oxide

groupPrescription drugs
CategoryInhaled gas
BenefitOvercoming respiratory failure in newborns
Used byBaby less than 14 days old
Nitrogen oxide for pregnant and lactating womenCategory C:Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women.

Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.

It is not known whether nitrogen oxides can be absorbed into breast milk or not. Breastfeeding mothers are advised to consult a doctor before using this medicine.

Drug formGas

Warning Before Using Nitrogen Oxide

Before using nitrous oxide, you need to pay attention to the following points:

  • Tell the doctor about any allergies your baby has. Nitrogen oxide should not be given to patients who are allergic to this drug.
  • Please be careful using this medicine if your baby has lung disease, heart disease, or methemoglobinemia.
  • Always follow your doctor's advice and recommendations before, during or after treatment with nitrous oxide.
  • Tell your doctor right away if your baby has any allergic symptoms, serious side effects, or overdose, after taking nitrous oxide.

Dosage and Instructions for Use of Nitrogen Oxide

Nitrogen oxides are only given in hospitals that have NICU facilities, with doses determined by pediatricians and their use will be monitored by a doctor or medical staff under the supervision of a doctor.

Nitrogen oxide will be given through a breathing apparatus. Giving nitrogen oxides can be done up to 2 weeks or more, depending on the condition of the baby.

How to Use Nitrogen Oxide Correctly

Nitrogen oxide will be given directly by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. Nitrogen oxide gas is given by means of breathing apparatus in the NICU room.

While using this drug, your doctor will monitor your respiratory function, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. This is done to help doctors determine the length of treatment.

Your child may need blood tests to check for possible side effects.

Stopping medication suddenly can increase the risk of developing rebound pulmonary hypertension syndrome in babies. This condition can be characterized by symptoms such as bluish lips or skin, fainting, or a slow heart rate.

When these symptoms appear, the doctor will reduce the dose gradually before stopping treatment completely.

Interaction of Nitrogen Oxide with Other Drugs

The following are some of the effects of drug interactions that can occur when nitrogen oxides are used with other drugs:

  • Increased risk of methemoglobinemia when used with prilocaine or sodium nitrite
  • Increased risk of developing or worsening side effects when used with riociguat

Side Effects and Dangers of Nitrogen Oxide

The use of nitrous oxide will be supervised and monitored by a doctor. There are some side effects that may occur after the use of nitrous oxide, namely low blood pressure, bloody urine, impaired lung function, increased blood sugar levels, or infection.

Immediately report to your doctor or medical officer on duty if you experience any of the side effects mentioned above or experience an allergic reaction after using nitrous oxide.