Which patient demographic might show increased susceptibility to nitrous oxide side effects?

Pediatric patients and the elderly exhibit increased susceptibility to the side effects of nitrous oxide due to several physiological factors. In pediatric patients, their developing neurological and respiratory systems can react more sensitively to anesthetics, leading to heightened reactions or side effects. Moreover, they metabolize drugs differently than adults, which can contribute to variances in how they respond to nitrous oxide.

On the other hand, the elderly often have age-related changes that affect the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anesthetic agents. Reduced organ function, including liver and kidney, can lead to altered drug processing and elimination, causing a greater likelihood of experiencing side effects. Additionally, elderly patients may have a broader range of medications that interact with nitrous oxide or may have diminished physiological reserves, further increasing susceptibility.

In contrast, other demographics such as adults in their prime and teenagers may not have the same level of vulnerability because their physiological systems are more robust and capable of handling such substances effectively. Those with pre-existing conditions could also have an altered response to nitrous oxide, but it is not exclusive to this group; children and the elderly are more consistently recognized as at greater risk across broader populations.