Entonox is a sweet smelling colourless gas. Due to a low solubility in blood and tissues the metabolism of Nitrous Oxide is minimal.
Entonox is a Schedule 4 drug for therapeutic use. Nitrous Oxide is an asphyxiant in the absence of Oxygen.
It is supplied as a gas mixture at high pressure in metal cylinders. It vigorously supports combustion of many materials which will not normally burn in air.
Uses
Entonox is used as an analgesic agent in first aid, emergency services, obstetrics, ambulances, nursing services and in doctors’ and dental surgeries.
Entonox is used for the relief of short term pain including: acute trauma, dental procedures and other painful procedures such as childbirth, wound and burn dressing, wound debridement and suturing.
Entonox is only suitable for self-administration by patient.
Indications
Entonox is indicated in adults and children for analgesia.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Nitrous Oxide or any other component in the gas
- Nitrous Oxide should not be used where air is entrapped within a body
- Nitrous Oxide should not be used on intoxicated or heavily sedated patients
- Where there is prolonged exposure, monitoring of peripheral blood for features of megaloblastic anaemia and leucopenia is recommended
