Randomized double-blind trial of psychotropic analgesic nitrous oxide compared with diazepam for alcohol withdrawal state

In this article, we report the first randomized double-blind controlled study of the use of psychotropic analgesic nitrous oxide (PAN) vs. a single dose of benzodiazepine (diazepam) for treating acute alcoholic withdrawal states. In previous studies, it was demonstrated that a single treatment of PAN was sufficient to reverse 90% of acute alcoholic withdrawal states within the first 60 minutes of administration with lasting effect in a single-blind manner. Despite the small sample used (n = 23), the gas was significantly more effective than the benzodiazepine at the P = 0.05 level when compared at 120 minutes. This study provides further support for previous findings that show PAN is a safe, rapid and effective therapy for acute mild to moderately severe withdrawal states.     

Analgesic nitrous oxide for alcohol withdrawal is better than placebo

We present data distinguishing the placebo response from the action of analgesic nitrous oxide in alcohol withdrawal. We also discuss the difficulties of undertaking double-blind controlled studies when using analgesic nitrous oxide as an active agent. A novel method of overcoming these problems is presented. The role of the postulated hyperalgesic opioid system in the negative placebo response is mentioned.