Laughing gas studied for pain relief: early results show promise?
NCT ID NCT01581450
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This completed Phase 1 study tested whether 35% nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can reduce pain sensitivity in 20 healthy men. Researchers used electrical stimulation to create temporary pain and measured how the gas affected the area of increased sensitivity. The study also monitored vital signs and sedation levels to check safety.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help understand how nitrous oxide affects pain sensitivity, potentially guiding future pain treatments.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, small study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Results may not apply to real-world pain conditions.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Erlangen - Nürnberg
Erlangen, 91054, Germany
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University of Erlangen - Nürnberg
Erlangen, Germany
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