Using nitrous oxide to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder
Efficacy of Nitrous Oxide in OCD: Pilot Study
This study is testing if breathing in nitrous oxide can quickly help adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Stanford, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT03826693 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study investigates the efficacy of nitrous oxide, a commonly used inhaled anesthetic, in providing rapid symptom relief for individuals suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study aims to determine if a single inhalation of nitrous oxide can significantly improve OCD symptoms in participants aged 18 to 65 with a primary diagnosis of the disorder. Participants will be monitored for safety and effectiveness, with a focus on the severity of their symptoms before and after treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-65 with a primary diagnosis of OCD and significant symptom severity.
Not a fit: Patients with psychiatric or medical conditions that pose safety risks or those who are pregnant or nursing may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a rapid and effective option for individuals struggling with OCD.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of nitrous oxide for OCD is a novel approach, other studies have explored its effects in different contexts, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-65 * Primary diagnosis of OCD * Sufficient severity of OCD symptoms * Ability to tolerate a treatment-free period * Capacity to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Psychiatric or medical conditions that make participation unsafe * Pregnant or nursing females * Concurrent use of any medications that might increase the risk of participation (e.g. drug interactions)
Where this trial is running
Stanford, California
- Stanford University — Stanford, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Peter J van Roessel, MD, PhD — Stanford Univeristy
- Study coordinator: Pavithra Mukunda, MS
- Email: ocdresearch@stanford.edu
- Phone: 650-723-4095
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.