title: Analgesic nitrous oxide for alcohol withdrawal is better than placebo.
abstract: We present data distinguishing the placebo response from the action of analgesic nitrous oxide in alcohol withdrawal. We also discuss the difficulties of undertaking double-blind controlled studies when using analgesic nitrous oxide as an active agent. A novel method of overcoming these problems is presented. The role of the postulated hyperalgesic opioid system in the negative placebo response is mentioned.
authors.affiliation: South African Brain Research Institute, Johannesburg.
authors.forename: F J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Lichtigfeld
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Gillman
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D000431:Ethanol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009609:Nitrous Oxide / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010919:Placebos / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D010919:Placebos; D000431:Ethanol; D009609:Nitrous Oxide