Laughing gas Shows Promise as a Rapid Treatment for Depression
You may know laughing gas from the dentist or, sadly, from recreational use. But scientists have now discovered that, when administered in a clinical setting, it can surprisingly adn effectively alleviate major depression.
Researchers from the University of Birmingham have reviewed existing studies on nitrous oxide and depression, and the results are striking: individuals experiencing severe depression reported feeling substantially better within 24 hours of treatment with laughing gas.
Why is this so fascinating?
antidepressants are a common treatment for depression, but they don’t work for everyone. Roughly half of patients experience only limited benefit, necessitating the exploration of choice therapies.
Laughing gas offers a key advantage: speed. Conventional antidepressants often require weeks to show noticeable effects. In contrast, improvements can be observed within a day of nitrous oxide treatment. While the initial effect may fade after a week,repeated treatments appear to prolong the benefits.
How does it work in the brain?
Nitrous oxide impacts specific receptors in the brain that regulate glutamate, a crucial neurotransmitter responsible for interaction between brain cells. This mechanism is similar to that of ketamine, another fast-acting antidepressant (though one with a potential for abuse). By influencing these receptors, mood can improve rapidly.
What about side effects?
Participants in studies experienced mild side effects like nausea, dizziness, or headaches. These symptoms were temporary and resolved on their own, with no serious complications reported. Though, researchers emphasize that the long-term effects of nitrous oxide treatment remain unknown and require further inquiry.
Currently,researchers are planning the first official hospital trial to assess the safety and efficacy of offering nitrous oxide to individuals with depression who haven’t responded to conventional medications. it’s possible that, within a few years, laughing gas could become a viable treatment option for those with limited alternatives.
