November 30, 2025

expert reaction to meta-analysis on the use of nitrous oxide for treatment of depression

A meta-analysis and systematic review published in eBioMedicine looks at nitrous oxide for the treatment of depression.

Prof Hamish McAllister-Williams, Professor of Affective Disorders, Newcastle University and Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“This is a very well conducted and comprehensive review of currently available data regarding whether nitrous oxide might be a possible treatment for depression.  The review shows that nitrous oxide may have positive effects on depression, at least in the very short term (up to 24 hours).  However, as the authors point out, the data is far from demonstrating that nitrous oxide is a viable treatment for depressive illness.  All trials included in the review were small, varied greatly in how the treatment was applied, were of short duration and included a variety of different patient groups.  There is also concern that in most studies patients were able to identify whether they were given nitrous oxide or placebo, which may have exaggerated the apparent effects of nitrous oxide.  Overall, this review suggests that it is worthwhile looking further into whether nitrous oxide may be a treatment for depression, but that much more research is needed with larger and better designed trials before any conclusions can be drawn.”

Nitrous oxide for the treatment of depression: a systemic review and meta-analysis’ by Kiranpreet Gill et al. was published in eBioMedicine at 23:30 UK time on Sunday 30^th November.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2025.106023

Declared interests

Prof Hamish McAllister-Williams: No relevant declarations related to this.