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Uptake of nitrous oxide by man
Canadian Anaesthetists' Society Journal
|September 1, 1982
Summary
This study measured nitrous oxide uptake in humans. Alveolar uptake decreased over time, similar to the square root of time, with individual variations observed during the two-hour inhalation period.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacokinetics
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Discrepancies exist in reported rates of nitrous oxide uptake in humans.
- Previous measurements may have lacked precision due to limitations in concentration control and uptake measurement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To accurately measure nitrous oxide uptake in humans using advanced technology.
- To characterize the time-dependent changes in alveolar and total uptake of nitrous oxide.
Main Methods:
- Six subjects inhaled 25% nitrous oxide for two hours.
- Automatic control of gas concentrations and computer measurement of breath-to-breath uptake were utilized.
- Total and alveolar uptake were determined and analyzed over time.
Main Results:
- Initial total uptake, extrapolated to 75% concentration, was approximately 1000 ml in the first minute.
- Alveolar uptake, equaling total uptake after a 4-minute wash-in, decreased over time, following a square root function.
- Significant inter-individual variability in uptake patterns was noted, though the overall decrease trend was consistent.
Conclusions:
- Nitrous oxide absorption continues throughout a two-hour inhalation period.
- The rate of alveolar nitrous oxide uptake diminishes over time, approximated by the square root of time.
- Accurate measurement of nitrous oxide uptake is feasible with modern technology, revealing detailed pharmacokinetic profiles.