DonOx is the abbreviated trade name for the gas mixture of oxygen with nitrous oxide in an equal ratio of 50%/50%. This gas mixture is distributed under different brand names; such as Entonox, Donopa, Nitronox and many others. Nitrous oxide in concentrations of 50% has analgesic effects and increases the pain threshold for various painful stimuli. At the concentration of 50%, nitrous oxide has limited anaesthetic effects and provides a sedative and calming effect but the patient remains conscious.

The gas is self-administered through a demand valve, using a mouthpiece. Self-administration of Nitrous oxide/oxygen is safe because if enough is inhaled to start to induce anaesthesia, the patient becomes unable to hold the valve, and so will drop it and soon exhale the residual gas. This means that unlike other anaesthetic gases, it does not require the presence of an anaesthetist for administration.

The DonOx cylinders can be supplied in capacities of 2L and are compressed under a pressure of 135bar. The cylinder can be supplied with a pin index connection or integral valve. With a pin index connection a specific regulator must be ordered with the cylinder. The life span of this gas is a maximum of 24 months from the date of filling, within this period the stability of the gas mixture can be guaranteed. Because the DonOx Marine cylinders are pre-filled, a minimum shelf life of 18 months is guaranteed by us.