Nitric oxide

Nitric Oxide is a medical gas that has been utilized in both therapeutic and research contexts. In the medical realm, it is predominantly used to boost oxygen delivery in specific patient populations and is frequently employed during and after heart surgery. Nitric Oxide works by helping to dilate blood vessels, making it easier for oxygen to be carried from the lungs to the rest of the body. This makes it particularly advantageous for individuals who have difficulty breathing independently, such as those with respiratory conditions like acute lung injury, pulmonary hypertension, and other forms of critical illness.
While pure Nitric Oxide on its own is not a medication due to its instability, it may be used in combination with other gases or substances to create drugs that serve various therapeutic purposes. In these instances, its primary role is to aid delivery of the therapeutic agent to specific targeted areas. The combination of Nitric Oxide with other components can lead to more effective treatment options by enhancing the drug’s stability, bioavailability, or specificity.
Overall, Nitric Oxide, whether on its own or in combination with other components, plays a critical role in improving oxygen distribution and enhancing the efficacy of therapies for a variety of ailments.