ProNox

ProNox is delivered by inhalation at the discretion of the patient making it an appealing and highly request this service since the controlled sedative effects are in the hands of the patient – literally. This aspect alone, regardless of the proven effects of nitrous oxide, have a calming effect on patients who may feel nervous about their treatment.

ProNox is not a replacement for a local anesthetic, although nitrous oxide does have an analgesic effect. When a patient uses the ProNox systemthe central nervous system slows down in terms of responsiveness. A natural byproduct of this is the enhancement of other pain medications. Patient comfort is a high priority to us, and we have elected to incorporate ProNox as a way to complement the effects of local anesthetic such as lidocaine for surgical and non-surgical procedures. Because nitrous oxide does not put a patient “to sleep,” like general anesthesia does, communication between patient and staff can provide consistent feedback to manage comfort levels.

The ProNox system is based on a long-history of success using nitrous oxide as a calming agent and analgesic. Nitrous oxide has been safely used for more than a century in dermatologic, surgical, and dental settings. ProNox has  internal safety mechanisms such as infection control via a one-way delivery valve and an automatic shut-off if either nitrous oxide or oxygen levels in the machine become too low.

In comparison to oral and IV sedatives, the advantage of nitrous oxide is that the calming effects occur rapidly and dissipate within about 5 minutes after the completion of treatment. Due to this fast-action, patients need not arrive for appointments early nor are they required to arrange transportation to and from their appointments. Once the effects of nitrous oxide wear off, normal activities can be resumed. In cases where the specific procedure would not preclude driving, patients using ProNox can drive home after their treatment.