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Nitrous oxide

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Active ingredient
Nitrous Oxide 99 L/100 L
Other brand names
Dosage form
Gas
Route
Respiratory (inhalation)
Prescription status
Rx (prescription)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 1955
Label revision date
February 12, 2026
Active ingredient
Nitrous Oxide 99 L/100 L
Other brand names
Dosage form
Gas
Route
Respiratory (inhalation)
Prescription status
Rx (prescription)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 1955
Label revision date
February 12, 2026
Manufacturer
Badger Welding Supplies, Inc.
Registration number
NDA209989
NDC root
12121-002

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Drug Overview

Nitrous oxide USP is a non-flammable gas commonly used in medical settings, particularly for its anesthetic and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It is often referred to as "laughing gas" and is administered under the supervision of a licensed practitioner who is experienced in its use. Nitrous oxide works by depressing the central nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety and pain during medical procedures.

This gas is typically used in dentistry and during certain surgical procedures to provide sedation and comfort. While it is effective for these purposes, it is important to use nitrous oxide safely and responsibly, as it can have risks if not administered correctly.

Uses

Nitrous Oxide is a gas that is used for various medical purposes, primarily as an anesthetic or sedative during procedures. It is important to note that the administration of Nitrous Oxide should only be done by a licensed practitioner who has experience with its use. This ensures that the practitioner is knowledgeable about the effects, dosages, and potential risks associated with Nitrous Oxide.

Additionally, it's crucial to be aware that Nitrous Oxide contains a chemical that the state of California recognizes as potentially causing birth defects or other reproductive harm. Therefore, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should discuss the risks with your healthcare provider before using this product.

Dosage and Administration

When using Nitrous Oxide, it's important to know that this medication can be risky and should only be administered by a licensed practitioner who has experience with it. This ensures your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Nitrous Oxide is given through inhalation, which means you will breathe it in. This method allows for quick effects, making it useful in various medical settings. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding its use to ensure the best outcomes.

What to Avoid

It's important to be aware of certain precautions when using Nitrous Oxide. First, you should not handle this product until you have read and understood all safety precautions. Avoid breathing in the gas, and make sure to keep it away from your eyes, skin, and clothing. Always use and store Nitrous Oxide outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to minimize risks.

Additionally, be mindful that this product contains a chemical recognized by the state of California as potentially causing birth defects or other reproductive harm. If you have any concerns or questions about using Nitrous Oxide, please consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Side Effects

Using nitrous oxide can come with some important side effects and risks. You may experience drowsiness or dizziness after its use. Additionally, nitrous oxide can displace oxygen, which may lead to rapid suffocation if not used properly. There is also a risk of frostbite if the gas comes into contact with your skin.

It's crucial to note that nitrous oxide is an oxidizer and can intensify fire, so it should be handled with care. If you inhale it and feel unwell, seek fresh air immediately and contact a healthcare professional. If it contacts your skin, do not rub the area; instead, thaw it gently with lukewarm water and seek medical advice. Lastly, be aware that this product may pose risks of birth defects or reproductive harm. Always ensure that nitrous oxide is administered by a qualified practitioner.

Warnings and Precautions

Using Nitrous Oxide can be risky, so it’s important to only use it under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional who understands its effects and potential dangers. Be aware that Nitrous Oxide can cause drowsiness or dizziness, and it may displace oxygen, leading to rapid suffocation. Additionally, it can cause frostbite and is known to contain a chemical that may cause birth defects or reproductive harm.

To ensure your safety, read all safety precautions before handling Nitrous Oxide. Store it away from flammable materials and keep valves free from grease and oil. Always use it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, and avoid breathing in the gas or getting it on your skin or clothing. If you feel unwell, contact a poison center or your doctor immediately. If you experience frostbite, thaw the affected area with lukewarm water and seek medical attention without rubbing the area.

Overdose

It appears that there is no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. However, it's always important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking more than the recommended dose. If you suspect an overdose, look out for any unusual symptoms or changes in your health.

In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. You can contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. Always keep the medication packaging on hand, as it can provide important information to healthcare professionals. Remember, when in doubt, it's better to be safe and get help right away.

Pregnancy Use

It’s important to be aware that this product contains a chemical that the state of California has identified as potentially causing birth defects or other reproductive harm. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should consult with your healthcare provider before using this product. They can help you understand the risks and make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize safety and seek professional guidance when it comes to medications and products during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

When considering the use of this product while breastfeeding, it's important to be aware that it contains a chemical that the state of California has identified as potentially causing birth defects or other reproductive harm. This warning highlights the need for caution, as the safety of the product for nursing mothers and their infants has not been fully established.

If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss any potential risks and to explore safer alternatives. Your health and the health of your baby are paramount, so ensuring that you have all the necessary information is crucial.

Pediatric Use

Using Nitrous Oxide for children should be approached with caution. It's important to know that this gas can be hazardous or not recommended for certain situations. Therefore, it should only be administered by a licensed practitioner who has experience with its use.

Currently, there are no specific guidelines regarding the use of Nitrous Oxide in children, including age recommendations or dosage differences. This means that if you are considering this option for your child, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide guidance tailored to your child's needs.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. If you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s always a good idea to discuss any medications with a healthcare provider. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate, considering any unique health needs or conditions that may be present.

Since there are no dosage adjustments or special precautions mentioned for elderly patients, your healthcare provider will be the best resource for personalized advice. Always keep them informed about any other medications or health issues to ensure safe and effective care.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that there is no specific information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for using Nitrous Oxide. This means that the insert does not provide guidelines tailored for patients with renal impairment.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any treatment is safe and appropriate for your condition. They can help determine the best approach for your specific health needs.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that there is no specific information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for using Nitrous Oxide. This means that the drug insert does not provide guidelines tailored for individuals with hepatic impairment (liver issues).

As always, it's best to discuss your individual health situation with your healthcare provider, who can offer personalized advice and ensure your safety while using any medication.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you. Always share your complete list of medications and any health conditions you have to receive the best care possible.

Storage and Handling

To ensure safe storage and handling of the product, always keep it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, away from clothing and other flammable materials. It's important to keep valves and fittings free from grease and oil to prevent any hazards. When temperatures exceed 52°C (125°F), protect the product from direct sunlight to maintain its integrity.

When using the product, make sure to employ a backflow preventive device in the piping to avoid any potential issues. Only use equipment that is made from compatible materials and rated for cylinder pressure, and ensure that all equipment is cleaned for oxygen service. Always open the valve slowly, and remember to close it after each use and when the product is empty to maintain safety.

Additional Information

Nitrous Oxide is administered through inhalation and should only be used by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner who is knowledgeable about its use. It's important to read and understand all safety precautions before handling it. Make sure to keep it away from flammable materials, avoid breathing in the gas, and do not let it come into contact with your eyes, skin, or clothing. Always use it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, and follow specific guidelines for storage and use to prevent accidents.

In case of an emergency, if someone inhales Nitrous Oxide, move them to fresh air and ensure they are comfortable. If they feel unwell, contact a poison center or a doctor. If the gas comes into contact with skin, thaw any frozen areas with lukewarm water without rubbing, and seek medical advice immediately.

FAQ

What is Nitrous Oxide USP?

Nitrous Oxide USP is a non-flammable gas classified as an oxidizer, used under the supervision of a licensed practitioner.

What are the dangers associated with Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide may cause or intensify fire, cause drowsiness or dizziness, displace oxygen leading to suffocation, and may cause frostbite.

What precautions should I take when using Nitrous Oxide?

You should read all safety precautions, store it away from combustible materials, avoid breathing the gas, and use it only in well-ventilated areas.

What should I do if I inhale Nitrous Oxide?

If inhaled, remove the person to fresh air and keep them comfortable for breathing. Call a poison center or doctor if they feel unwell.

What are the indications for using Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide should only be administered by a licensed practitioner familiar with its indications, effects, dosages, and precautions.

Is Nitrous Oxide safe during pregnancy?

Nitrous Oxide contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

How should Nitrous Oxide be stored?

Store Nitrous Oxide outdoors or in a well-ventilated place, away from clothing and combustible materials, and protect it from sunlight when temperatures exceed 52°C (125°F).

What should I do if Nitrous Oxide comes into contact with my skin?

Thaw frozen parts with lukewarm water without rubbing the area, and seek immediate medical advice.

Who manufactures Nitrous Oxide USP?

Nitrous Oxide USP is manufactured by Badger Welding Supplies, Inc., located in Madison, WI.

Packaging Info

The table below lists all NDC Code configurations of Nitrous Oxide, the U.S. brand-name prescription product. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Nitrous Oxide.
Details

FDA Insert (PDF)

This is the full prescribing document for Nitrous Oxide, submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It contains official information for healthcare providers, including how to use the medication, possible side effects, and safety warnings.

View FDA-approved insert (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the specified drug.

Uses and Indications

The administration of Nitrous Oxide is indicated for use in various medical settings, including analgesia and sedation, under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. This practitioner must possess experience in the use and administration of Nitrous Oxide and be knowledgeable about its indications, effects, dosages, methods, frequency, duration of administration, as well as the associated hazards, contraindications, side effects, and necessary precautions.

Limitations of use include the potential hazards associated with Nitrous Oxide, which may render its administration contraindicated in certain situations. Practitioners are advised to exercise caution and ensure that they are adequately informed about the risks involved.

This product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm (CAS: 10024-97-2). Therefore, it is essential for practitioners to consider the implications of its use in pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant. No specific nonteratogenic effects have been identified in the available data.

Dosage and Administration

Administration of Nitrous Oxide is indicated only for use by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner who possesses experience in its use and administration. Due to the potential hazards and contraindications associated with Nitrous Oxide, it is imperative that healthcare professionals ensure proper training and understanding of the substance prior to administration.

The route of administration for Nitrous Oxide is via respiratory inhalation. Practitioners should adhere to established protocols for inhalation techniques to ensure patient safety and efficacy of the treatment. It is essential to monitor the patient closely during administration to manage any adverse effects and to adjust the dosage as necessary based on the patient's response.

Contraindications

Administration of Nitrous Oxide is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the compound. Due to the potential for hazardous effects, it is imperative that all safety precautions are thoroughly read and understood prior to handling.

Avoid exposure to the gas; inhalation may pose significant health risks. Direct contact with eyes, skin, or clothing should be strictly avoided. The product should only be used and stored outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

Additionally, this product contains a chemical recognized by the state of California as a potential cause of birth defects or other reproductive harm, further emphasizing the need for caution in its use.

Warnings and Precautions

Administration of Nitrous Oxide may pose significant risks and should only be conducted by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner experienced in its use. This practitioner must be knowledgeable about the indications, effects, dosages, methods, frequency and duration of administration, as well as the associated hazards, contraindications, side effects, and necessary precautions.

Hazards and Risks Nitrous Oxide is classified as a dangerous substance that may cause or intensify fire, as it is an oxidizer and contains gas under pressure, which may explode if subjected to heat. Additionally, exposure to Nitrous Oxide may lead to drowsiness or dizziness, and it has the potential to displace oxygen, resulting in rapid suffocation. Frostbite is also a risk associated with this product. Furthermore, it is important to note that this product contains a chemical recognized by the state of California as a potential cause of birth defects or other reproductive harm.

General Precautions Prior to handling Nitrous Oxide, it is imperative that all safety precautions are thoroughly read and understood. The gas should be stored away from clothing and other combustible materials, and care must be taken to keep valves and fittings free from grease and oil. Inhalation of the gas should be avoided, and contact with eyes, skin, or clothing must be prevented. Nitrous Oxide should only be used and stored outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. In the event of a fire, efforts should be made to stop the leak if it is safe to do so. A backflow preventive device should be utilized in the piping, and only equipment made from compatible materials and rated for cylinder pressure should be employed. Equipment must be cleaned for oxygen service prior to use. Valves should be opened slowly, and closed after each use and when empty. Protection from sunlight is necessary when ambient temperatures exceed 52°C (125°F). It is essential to read and follow the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use.

Emergency Instructions In case of feeling unwell, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance by contacting a poison center or a physician. If skin contact occurs, particularly with frozen parts, it is advised to thaw the affected area with lukewarm water without rubbing. Immediate medical advice or attention should be sought in such instances.

Side Effects

Administration of Nitrous Oxide may be associated with several adverse reactions, which can vary in seriousness and frequency.

Serious adverse reactions include the potential for drowsiness or dizziness, which may impair the ability to perform tasks requiring alertness. Additionally, Nitrous Oxide may displace oxygen, leading to rapid suffocation, and it poses a risk of frostbite if it comes into contact with skin. The product is also classified as an oxidizer and is under pressure, which raises concerns about the risk of explosion if heated.

Patients should be aware that the administration of Nitrous Oxide is contraindicated in certain situations and should only be conducted by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner experienced in its use.

In the event of inhalation, it is crucial to remove the individual to fresh air and ensure they are comfortable for breathing. If the patient feels unwell, immediate medical attention should be sought by contacting a poison center or physician. For skin exposure, it is advised to thaw any frozen areas with lukewarm water without rubbing the affected area and to seek immediate medical advice.

Furthermore, it is important to note that this product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm, highlighting the need for caution in its use.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

The table below lists all NDC Code configurations of Nitrous Oxide, the U.S. brand-name prescription product. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Nitrous Oxide.
Details

Pediatric Use

Administration of Nitrous Oxide may be hazardous or contraindicated in pediatric patients. It is indicated for use only by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner experienced in the use and administration of Nitrous Oxide.

The provided information does not specifically address pediatric use, and therefore, there are no specific age recommendations, dosing differences, safety concerns, or special precautions for children mentioned. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of pediatric-specific data when contemplating the use of Nitrous Oxide in this population.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any potential adverse effects or changes in efficacy, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

This product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Pregnant patients should be made aware of this risk when considering the use of this product. Healthcare professionals are advised to weigh the potential benefits against the risks when prescribing this product to women of childbearing potential. It is recommended that women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus.

Lactation

Lactating mothers should be aware that this product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Due to the potential risks associated with this chemical, caution is advised when considering the use of this product during breastfeeding.

There is currently no available data on the excretion of this product in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Healthcare professionals should weigh the potential benefits against the risks when advising lactating mothers regarding the use of this product.

Renal Impairment

There is no specific information regarding renal impairment, dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with reduced kidney function provided in the insert for Nitrous Oxide. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when treating patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of Nitrous Oxide. Consequently, there is no available information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions for this patient population. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution and consider the overall clinical context when administering Nitrous Oxide to patients with compromised liver function.

Overdosage

There is currently no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. In the absence of documented overdosage data, healthcare professionals are advised to exercise caution and monitor patients closely for any unusual symptoms or adverse effects that may arise following administration.

In the event of suspected overdosage, it is recommended that healthcare providers initiate supportive care and symptomatic treatment as necessary. Monitoring of vital signs and laboratory parameters may be warranted to assess the patient's condition and guide further management.

Healthcare professionals should remain vigilant for potential symptoms that could indicate an overdosage scenario, although specific symptoms have not been detailed. If any concerning signs or symptoms develop, appropriate medical intervention should be sought immediately.

For further guidance, healthcare providers are encouraged to consult local poison control centers or relevant medical authorities to obtain the most current recommendations for managing suspected overdosage cases.

Nonclinical Toxicology

This product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. The specific chemical identified is CAS: 10024-97-2.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified the following adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs: drowsiness, dizziness, and frostbite. Additionally, it is noted that this product contains a chemical recognized by the state of California as a substance that may cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients that the administration of Nitrous Oxide may be hazardous or contraindicated and is intended for use only by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner experienced in its use. It is essential that the practitioner is familiar with the indications, effects, dosages, methods, frequency, duration of administration, as well as the associated hazards, contraindications, side effects, and necessary precautions.

Patients should be made aware of the potential dangers associated with Nitrous Oxide, including its ability to cause or intensify fire, as it is an oxidizer that contains gas under pressure and may explode if heated. They should be informed that the gas may cause drowsiness or dizziness and has the potential to displace oxygen, leading to rapid suffocation. Additionally, patients should be cautioned about the risk of frostbite.

It is crucial for patients to understand the importance of reading and comprehending all safety precautions before handling Nitrous Oxide. They should be instructed to keep and store the gas away from clothing and other combustible materials, ensuring that valves and fittings remain free from grease and oil. Patients should avoid breathing the gas and should take care to prevent contact with eyes, skin, or clothing.

Healthcare providers should emphasize the necessity of using and storing Nitrous Oxide only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. In the event of a fire, patients should be advised to stop the leak if it is safe to do so. They should also be informed about the importance of using a backflow preventive device in the piping and only utilizing equipment made of compatible materials rated for cylinder pressure and cleaned for oxygen service. Patients should be instructed to open the valve slowly, close it after each use and when empty, and protect the gas from sunlight when ambient temperatures exceed 52°C (125°F).

Patients should be encouraged to read and follow the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) prior to use. In case of an emergency, healthcare providers should inform patients of the first aid measures: if inhaled, they should be removed to fresh air and kept comfortable for breathing, and a poison center or physician should be contacted if they feel unwell. If Nitrous Oxide comes into contact with the skin, patients should thaw frozen areas with lukewarm water without rubbing the affected area and seek immediate medical advice or attention.

Finally, healthcare providers should warn patients that this product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in configurations that include specific NDC numbers, which should be referenced as needed. It is essential to store and handle the product exclusively outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Care must be taken to keep the product away from clothing and other combustible materials to prevent fire hazards.

Valves and fittings should be maintained free from grease and oil to ensure safe operation. When the ambient temperature exceeds 52°C (125°F), the product must be protected from direct sunlight to avoid degradation. A backflow preventive device should be utilized in the piping to prevent contamination.

Only equipment made from compatible materials of construction and rated for cylinder pressure should be used. Additionally, it is crucial to use equipment that has been cleaned for oxygen service. When operating the valve, it should be opened slowly, and it is important to close the valve after each use and when the cylinder is empty to maintain safety and integrity.

Additional Clinical Information

The route of administration for the product is via respiratory inhalation. Clinicians should be aware that the administration of Nitrous Oxide may pose hazards or be contraindicated. It is intended for use only by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner experienced in its use, who is knowledgeable about its indications, effects, dosages, methods, frequency, duration, hazards, contraindications, side effects, and necessary precautions.

Patient counseling is critical; individuals must not handle the product until all safety precautions have been thoroughly read and understood. It should be stored away from combustible materials, and precautions must be taken to keep valves and fittings free from grease and oil. Users should avoid breathing the gas and prevent contact with eyes, skin, or clothing. The product should only be used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. In case of fire, individuals should stop leaks if safe and use appropriate equipment. First aid measures include moving an inhaled individual to fresh air and seeking medical advice if unwell, as well as thawing any frozen skin parts with lukewarm water without rubbing the area.

FDA Insert (PDF)

This document is the official FDA-approved prescribing information for Nitrous Oxide as submitted by Badger Welding Supplies, Inc.. It includes detailed information about indications, dosage, contraindications, warnings, and clinical pharmacology.

View full prescribing information (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Nitrous Oxide, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-approved dosage forms and strengths are listed in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status, pharmacologic class (EPC), and mechanism of action (MoA) were cross-checked against the FDA Orange Book (NDA209989) and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.