Which inhalant is nicknamed 'laughing gas'?

Which inhalant is nicknamed 'laughing gas'?

• A. Methoxyflurane
• B. Desflurane
• C. Isoflurane
• D. Nitrous oxide

Answer: (D)

Laughing gas is nitrous oxide—the inhalant famous for producing a brief euphoric feeling that can trigger laughter when inhaled. This euphoric, analgesic effect is why it’s historically associated with a lightened mood and “laughs.” In clinical use, nitrous oxide provides analgesia and is often used as an adjunct to reduce the amount of more potent anesthetics needed, and it has a very rapid onset and recovery because it is only mildly soluble in blood. The other inhalants listed are volatile anesthetics with different properties and don’t carry the same giggling reputation.

Laughing gas is nitrous oxide—the inhalant famous for producing a brief euphoric feeling that can trigger laughter when inhaled. This euphoric, analgesic effect is why it’s historically associated with a lightened mood and “laughs.” In clinical use, nitrous oxide provides analgesia and is often used as an adjunct to reduce the amount of more potent anesthetics needed, and it has a very rapid onset and recovery because it is only mildly soluble in blood. The other inhalants listed are volatile anesthetics with different properties and don’t carry the same giggling reputation.