The Effect of Nitrous Oxide on Oxygen Consumption and Blood Flow in the Cerebral Cortex of the Rat

Abstract

The effect of 70% nitrous oxide upon cerebral oxygen consumption (CMRo₂) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) was studied in artificially ventilated rats. The control groups consisted of unanaesthetized animals in which a stress-induced increase in CMRo₂ and CBF was prevented by previous adrenalectomy, or by administration of a beta blocker (propranolol). There were no significant differences in CMRo₂ between animals ventilated with either N₂O or N₂. It is concluded that if nitrous oxide depresses cerebral metabolism the depression cannot exceed 10%.