Nitrous Oxide for Depression
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
To evaluate the acute and sustained antidepressant effects of nitrous oxide in people with major depressive disorder; and further evaluate these effects by identifying the optimal dose and regimen to guide current practice, and to plan a future large pragmatic trial.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you've used NMDA-antagonists like ketamine in the past 3 months or are undergoing ECT treatment.
How is nitrous oxide different from other drugs for depression?
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug nitrous oxide for depression?
Research indicates that nitrous oxide, which is commonly used for pain relief, has shown significant antidepressant effects in adults with severe treatment-resistant depression, with maximum effects observed 24 hours after administration. Additionally, nitrous oxide is a NMDAR antagonist, similar to ketamine, which is known for its antidepressant properties.34678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Peter Nagele, MD, MSc
Principal Investigator
University of Chicago, Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care
Paul Myles, MD
Principal Investigator
The Alfred Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD), confirmed by specific criteria and a score >16 on the HDRS-21 scale. Participants must not have psychosis, recent substance abuse (except nicotine), ongoing ECT treatment, significant medical issues, or be pregnant/breastfeeding. Those with suicidal intentions, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, panic disorder or certain other mental health conditions are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive weekly 1-hour inhalational sessions of either nitrous oxide or placebo for 4 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Nitrous Oxide
- Placebo
Nitrous Oxide is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Chicago
Lead Sponsor
The Alfred
Collaborator