Nitric Oxide

Abstract

The relevance of the nitrogen oxides for clinical medicine has been recognized for over a century. Nitrous oxide (N<inf>2</inf>O) has been used safely for analgesia and anesthesia since the 18th century. Nitric oxide (NO) has emerged as a chemical messenger in a multitude of biologic systems in maintenance of cardiovascular tone, platelet regulation, and central nervous system signaling, as well as a role in gastrointestinal smooth muscle relaxation, and immune regulation. This review will discuss the biochemical basis of NO activity, and focusing primarily on the practice of anesthesia and critical care medicine.