In short
Currently, there is 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating new treatment approaches for suicidal ideation. This trial is exploring the use of nitrous oxide and oxygen therapy as a potential rapid intervention for individuals experiencing active suicidal thoughts in emergency settings.
Clinical trial locations
- France
Study on Reducing Suicidal Thoughts in Emergency Patients Using Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen Therapy
This clinical trial is investigating a novel approach to treating suicidal thoughts using an inhaled gas mixture called KALINOX, which contains 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen. The study is being conducted in France at the psychiatric emergency department of CHRU of Tours.
Who can participate:
- Adults between 18 and 50 years old
- Individuals experiencing active suicidal thoughts at the time of evaluation in the emergency room
- Those who score 8 or higher on the Beck Suicidal Ideation Scale, which measures the intensity of suicidal thoughts
- French-speaking individuals
- People who are able to wear a face mask for the treatment
- Those affiliated with social security (health coverage system)
Who cannot participate:
The age restriction to 50 years has been set to reduce the likelihood of other health complications and minor memory problems that tend to be more common in older adults.
What the trial involves:
The main focus of this study is to determine whether inhaling a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen can reduce suicidal thoughts in people experiencing a mental health crisis. Participants will receive the gas mixture through inhalation for one hour while in the emergency department. The treatment aims to provide rapid relief from intense suicidal thoughts.
The study will carefully monitor participants over time to assess how their symptoms change. The first evaluation occurs four hours after the inhalation treatment, followed by additional assessments at 24 hours, 48 hours, one week, and one month. These evaluations use several standardized scales to measure the intensity of suicidal thoughts, symptoms of depression, and anxiety levels.
Investigational treatment:
The treatment being tested is nitrous oxide, also known as protoxyde d'azote. This medication is inhaled as a gas mixture with oxygen. Nitrous oxide works by affecting neurotransmitter systems in the brain, which may help reduce acute mental distress. While commonly known as an anesthetic and pain relief gas used in medical settings, this trial is exploring its potential as a rapid-acting treatment for suicidal thoughts in emergency situations.
Summary
Currently, only one clinical trial is actively investigating new treatments for suicidal ideation. This trial, conducted in France, represents an innovative approach by testing whether nitrous oxide inhalation can provide rapid relief for individuals in acute crisis. The study focuses on emergency department patients and aims to evaluate both immediate and longer-term effects over a one-month period. The research uses multiple assessment tools to comprehensively measure changes in suicidal thoughts, depression, and anxiety. This trial highlights the ongoing search for fast-acting interventions that could help individuals during critical moments when suicidal thoughts are most intense.
