Effects of nitrous oxide on pain and memory
Functional MRI of Nitrous Oxide Inhalation in Volunteer Subjects
This study tests how low doses of nitrous oxide affect pain and memory in healthy volunteers while they do tasks in an MRI machine.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 59 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT06702631 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates how low doses of nitrous oxide influence pain processing and memory function in healthy volunteers. Participants will undergo functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while performing cognitive tasks related to pain and memory, both with and without the administration of nitrous oxide. The study aims to identify neural correlates of pain and memory modulation, providing insights into the central effects of inhalational nitrous oxide. The trial consists of two visits and does not involve long-term follow-up.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults without significant medical or psychiatric conditions who can undergo MRI.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain, significant memory impairment, or those on pain medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of pain management and cognitive function during anesthesia.
How similar studies have performed: While the effects of nitrous oxide on pain and cognition have been explored, this specific approach using fMRI is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * have none of the specific exclusion criteria * have a valid email address and valid phone number throughout the study * free from any non-MRI compatible implants Exclusion Criteria: * are pregnant or attempting to conceive * body mass index (BMI) \> 35 * significant memory impairment or hearing loss * sleep apnea * chronic pain or frequently taking pain medication (including tramadol) * any severe or poorly-controlled medical problem (hypertension, diabetes) * neurologic or psychiatric disease, including anxiety, and depression * severe cardiac disease * history of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency or variant mutation, as assessed by personal report * recent ear or eye surgery * being claustrophobic * have metal implants or non-removable metal piercings * having a history of adverse reaction to anesthetics * daily alcohol or heavy alcohol use; history of alcohol abuse * current daily smoker * regular or recent marijuana use (including prescribed/medical marijuana) * illicit drug use, i.e., street drugs * regularly taking: antiepileptics, antidepressants, anti-psychotics, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medication, stimulants, or sleep-aids
Where this trial is running
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- University of Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Keith M Vogt, MD, PhD
- Email: kev18@pitt.edu
- Phone: 4126473147
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.