Inhaled methoxyflurane - an explorable alternative to nitrous oxide?

Abstract

Nitrous oxide is a widely used and well-established form of inhalation sedation in dentistry. Its properties have a wide margin of safety and allow for anxious, paediatric and adult patients to receive dental treatment with minimal impact upon discharge. Nitrous oxide has drawbacks, however, including its environmental impact and need for specialist equipment. Methoxyflurane is another drug which could prove to be an alternative to nitrous oxide. Methoxyflurane's use has proved popular within emergency medicine in Australia and New Zealand for its potent analgesic effects and recognition of its anxiolytic effect. As a result, its use in invasive outpatient procedures has now become popular. Unfortunately, there is very limited evidence of its use within dentistry as a form of inhalation sedation and analgesic. A wider evidence base should be established, as methoxyflurane could prove to be an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to nitrous oxide.