Monitoring the effects of chronic nitrous oxide use

Biological Alterations of Laughing Gas Outcomes in Neurology

University Hospital, Lille · NCT05540561

This study looks at people who use nitrous oxide to see if certain blood markers can help us understand the health risks and effects of this substance.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment356 (estimated)
Ages14 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Lille (other)
Locations8 sites (Béthune and 7 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05540561 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on the biological diagnosis and monitoring of individuals who abuse nitrous oxide, a substance linked to serious neurological disorders. It aims to identify potential biomarkers, such as vitamin B12 and homocysteine levels, that could indicate the extent of nitrous oxide exposure and its associated health risks. Participants will include current or former users of nitrous oxide, categorized based on their clinical signs and symptoms. Blood samples will be collected to analyze these biomarkers and better understand the underlying mechanisms of nitrous oxide-related health issues.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are current or former recreational nitrous oxide users, with or without clinical signs of toxicity.

Not a fit: Patients who have never used nitrous oxide or have stopped using it for more than six months will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved monitoring and management strategies for patients suffering from the effects of nitrous oxide abuse.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on nitrous oxide abuse, studies on other substance abuses have shown success in identifying biomarkers for monitoring health impacts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* A current or former recreational nitrous oxide user defined
* With associated clinical signs (group 1)
* Without associated clinical signs (group 2)
* With or without clinico-biological sequelae associated with use
* Consenting to the conduct of the study
* Socially insured

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant or breastfeeding women
* Never used nitrous oxide or stopped using it more than 6 months ago
* Lack of social security coverage
* Not willing to participate in the entire study

Where this trial is running

Béthune and 7 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Nitrous Oxide Abuse, Nitrous Oxide, Neurology, Thrombosis, Biomarkers, Metabolis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.