Pro-Nox is an FDA-cleared analgesia, and this system is highly regarded for its safety, efficiency, and patient-controlled administration, making it a popular choice in settings requiring non-opioid pain management options.

At Ob/Gyn of Atlanta, Pro-Nox is available as an optional service for those who wish to use it to manage pain and anxiety during their procedures. It is a self-pay option costing $100 per session. This allows you to decide whether the additional comfort provided by Pro-Nox aligns with your personal care preferences and needs. Please consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach and whether Pro-Nox is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pro-Nox

How Does Pro-Nox Work?

The Pro-Nox system works by allowing you to inhale a fixed 50/50 mixture of nitrous oxide (N₂O) and oxygen (O₂) through a mouthpiece or a mask connected to a demand valve. This mixture quickly provides analgesia and anxiolysis, helping to relieve pain and anxiety.

Unlike general anesthesia, which completely sedates you, Pro-Nox functions by temporarily blocking the body’s pain signals from reaching the brain and disassociates the brain’s ability to process those pain signals. This mechanism helps ease discomfort during your procedure without affecting your consciousness or mobility.

The effects of Pro-Nox begin within just a few breaths, creating a relaxed state, and has been shown to reduce pain and anxiety by up to 85%. Once the procedure is over, the effects wear off quickly, usually within 10-15 minutes, allowing you to safely drive home or return to your daily activities without prolonged downtime.

N₂O in Depth: The primary mechanism through which nitrous oxide works is by inhibiting NMDA receptors found in your cell membrane. These receptors are like tiny locks and are usually opened by a key called “glutamate,” which is a signal that can make you feel pain. When nitrous oxide gets to these receptors, it blocks glutamate from being attached. This means the pain signals can’t travel to the brain, effectively dulling your body’s response to pain stimuli.

Is Pro-Nox Safe?

Pro-Nox is safe for general use in medical procedures due to several safety features. The self-administered aspect of the system puts you in complete control of your pain management, allowing you to inhale as much or as little as you need. Moreover, the mechanism

• maintains patient oxygenation
• does not inhibit airway reflexes
• allows for quick reversal of its effects once you stop inhaling the gas
• is non-addictive
• has a scavenger tube to collect and eliminate the nitrous waste that is exhaled by the patient
• includes safety shut-offs and alarms to alert medical personnel of any operational issues, ensuring a controlled and secure usage environment

Pro-Nox is safe to use even during labor and delivery, making it suitable for a wide range of obstetric and gynecologic procedures.

Is Pro-Nox Right for Me?

Typical candidates are those looking for quick pain relief during procedures where general anesthesia is not necessary or preferred. Patients with certain medical conditions such as recent pneumothorax, vitamin B12 deficiency, extreme chronic fatigue, or those undergoing specific ear or gastrointestinal surgeries may be advised against using Pro-Nox. If you’re considering a procedure that may cause anxiety or discomfort, always consult with your provider to determine if Pro-Nox can improve your treatment experience.

What are the Side Effects of Pro-Nox?

The primary intended effect of Pro-Nox is to create a deeply relaxed state, which may come with a sense of happiness or euphoria often associated with the use of nitrous oxide. Other side effects may include:

• Temporary Delusion: Some patients may experience a sense of delusion, feeling slightly out of touch with reality during the administration of Pro-Nox™.
• Rooted Feeling: There might be moments during the procedure when you feel as though you are rooted in place, but this sensation is temporary.
• Dizziness: It’s not uncommon to feel a bit dizzy while using Pro-Nox™; however, this feeling should dissipate quickly after the gas is stopped.
• Slight Headache: A minor headache may occur, which generally resolves within a few minutes after the procedure.
• Nausea: Some patients may experience nausea, but this is typically mild and subsides quickly.

Staying well hydrated before your procedure can help prevent some side effects, particularly dizziness and headaches. It’s important to note that the side effects are temporary, often resolving within minutes after Pro-Nox use is stopped, allowing you to return to your normal activities shortly after their procedure.

Can I Drive Home after Using Pro-Nox?

The effects of the gas wear off within 10-15 minutes after you stop inhaling it, allowing you to recover quickly and safely drive home.

Is Pro-Nox covered by insurance?

Pro-Nox is generally not covered by insurance because it is considered an elective treatment. At Ob/Gyn of Atlanta, the option of Pro-Nox at $100 is available to cater to the individual comfort needs of our patients.

Can I use Pro-Nox if I’m Pregnant?

The Pro-Nox system with 50/50 mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is generally considered safe for use during labor under medical supervision because it provides pain relief without being a major sedative. Moreover, it doesn’t require metabolism by the mother’s body, which means it doesn’t affect the fetus as much as other pain medications might. It’s fast-acting and also leaves the body quickly once inhalation stops, which allows pain management to be adjusted quickly and easily.

However, every pregnancy and medical situation is unique. It’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals who understand your health history and pregnancy to make an informed decision that ensures safety for both you and your baby.

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Citation:

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