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Hormonal responses to analgesic nitrous oxide in man
M A Gillman1, I Katzeff, W J Vermaak
1S.A. Brain Research Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Hormone and Metabolic Research = Hormon- Und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones Et Metabolisme
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Analgesic nitrous oxide significantly elevates prolactin and lowers cortisol in healthy males. These hormonal changes mirror those seen with opioid administration, suggesting a potential shared mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nitrous oxide is commonly used for analgesia.
- Its effects on the human endocrine system are not fully understood.
- Opioids are known to cause specific hormonal changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of analgesic concentrations of nitrous oxide on key hormones in healthy males.
- To compare the observed hormonal changes with those induced by opioids.
Main Methods:
- Six healthy male subjects received analgesic concentrations of nitrous oxide (mean 48.8%).
- Blood samples were collected and assayed for prolactin, ACTH, FSH, LH, GH, cortisol, and thyroid hormones.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in prolactin levels was observed.
- A statistically significant decrease in cortisol levels was noted.
- No significant changes were found in ACTH, FSH, LH, GH, or thyroid hormones.
- Cortisol levels did not consistently correlate with ACTH levels.
Conclusions:
- Analgesic nitrous oxide induces significant alterations in prolactin and cortisol levels.
- The observed hormonal profile resembles that of opioid administration in humans.
- These findings suggest potential shared neuroendocrine pathways between nitrous oxide and opioids.