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 Nitrous Oxide Molecule. Nitrous oxide produces analgesic and anxiolytic effects. The exact mechanism of action through which these effects are perpetuated is unknown. However, the most widely accepted theory is that the analgesic effect is mediated through interaction with the opioid receptors. These are the same receptors activated by morphine and heroin. This stimulation occurs in the midbrain leading to activation of the descending inhibitory pathways, which alters pain processing in the spinal cord. The anxiolytic effect is mediated through interaction with the GABA-A receptors. The mechanism of action closely resembles that of ethanol. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that inhibits the pre-synaptic cells from transmitting thus decreasing nervous system activity.
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