Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) is diagnosed in individuals who, despite using a combination of two different classes of depression medication, show no improvements in their depression. It is estimated to affect around 30% of people suffering from depression. Not only do those suffering from TRD experience a lower quality of mental health, but they also face challenges with physical health. However, researchers now have new evidence that nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can act as an antidepressant.
According to the research in Science Translation Medicine, a phase 2 trial of laughing gas yielded great results in treating TRD. Traditionally, dentists and hospitals use nitrous oxide most commonly. Moreover, the pain reliever boosts moods, earning the nickname ‘laughing gas’. Dr. Peter Nagele pursued this study, inspired by ketamine’s breakthrough in treating severe depression, aiming for similar advancements.
In the trial, there were 24 participants who all received a 1-hour long session of 25% nitrous oxide. In a previous study of 20 participants, the doctors used a 50% concentration. While it effectively treated depression, it also caused side effects such as headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Moreover, these side effects were significant.
“This investigation was motivated by observations from research on ketamine and depression.”
“Like nitrous oxide, ketamine is an anesthetic, and there has been promising work using ketamine at a sub-anesthetic dose for treating depression. We wondered if our past concentration of 50% had been too high. Maybe by lowering the dose, we could find the ‘Goldilocks spot’ that would maximize clinical benefit and minimize negative side effects.”
Peter Nagele, MD, Chair of Anesthesia and Critical Care at UChicago Medicine — Neuroscience News
The laughing gas seems to affect the brain by blocking molecules on nerve cells called N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. A 25% concentration of laughing gas effectively treated depression with fewer side effects, providing relief lasting a full day. Patients reported sustained relief lasting up to a full day after treatment, suggesting promising outcomes for future therapeutic applications.
The next research phase requires a larger participant pool, necessitating increased support from colleagues and the public alike. Would you be willing to undergo treatment like this for your depression? Let us know in the comments. Additionally, from all of us at Trill!: go get your COVID-19 vaccine, continue washing your hands, and always reread your messages before you send them.
