Nitrogen oxide or nitric oxide is a gas that is given with a respirator to treat respiratory failure in newborns, especially babies who are born prematurely.
Nitrogen oxide works by dilating the blood vessels in the lungs, so that airflow to and from the lungs can be smoother. Nitrogen oxide can only be given in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Nitrogen oxide trademarks: -
What is Nitrogen Oxide
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Inhaled gas |
| Benefit | Overcoming respiratory failure in newborns |
| Used by | Infants less than 14 days old |
| Nitrogen oxide for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women.
Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not yet known whether nitrogen oxides can be absorbed into breast milk or not. Breastfeeding mothers are advised to consult a doctor before using this drug. |
| Drug form | Gas |
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. Nitrous oxide should not be given to patients who are allergic to this drug.
- Please be careful using this drug if your baby has lung disease, heart disease , or methemoglobinemia .
- Always follow the doctor's advice and recommendations before, during, or after, undergoing treatment with nitrous oxide.
- Tell your doctor right away if your baby has allergy symptoms, serious side effects, or an overdose, after using nitrous oxide.
Dosage and Rules for Using Nitrogen Oxide
Nitrogen oxide is only given in hospitals that have NICU facilities , with the dose determined by the pediatrician and its use will be monitored by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor.
Nitrous oxide will be given through a respirator. Nitrous oxide can be given for up to 2 weeks or more, depending on the baby's condition.
How to Use Nitrogen Oxide Properly
Nitrogen oxide will be given directly by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. Nitrous oxide gas is given with a respirator in the NICU room.
While using this drug the doctor will monitor respiratory function, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. This is done to help the doctor determine the duration of treatment.
Your child may need to have blood tests to check for possible side effects.
Stopping medication suddenly can increase the risk of rebound pulmonary hypertension syndrome in the baby. This condition can be marked by symptoms in the form of bluish lips or skin, fainting, or slow heartbeat.
When these symptoms appear, the doctor will reduce the dose gradually before the treatment is stopped completely.
Nitrogen Oxide Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are some of the effects of drug interactions that can occur when nitrous oxide is used with other drugs:
- Increased risk of methemoglobinemia when used with prilocaine or sodium nitrite
- Increased risk of developing or worsening of 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 several side effects that may occur after using nitrous oxide, namely low blood pressure , bloody urine, impaired lung function, increased blood sugar levels, or infection .
Immediately report to the doctor or medical officer on duty if you experience the side effects mentioned above or experience an allergic reaction after using nitrous oxide.