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helium

V03AN03

Forms & Strengths

Compressed gas, 100% in cylinders
Gas mixtures with oxygen (typically 20% to 80% helium)

Adult Dosing

Heliox administration: 80:20 or 70:30 helium-oxygen mixture administered via non-rebreather mask or mechanical ventilator
Duration based on clinical response and resolution of underlying airway obstruction

Pediatric Dosing

Heliox administration: 70:30 or 80:20 helium-oxygen mixture via high-flow nasal cannula, non-rebreather mask, or mechanical ventilator
Indicated for acute severe asthma exacerbations, croup, or post-extubation stridor

Indications

Reduction of work of breathing in patients with upper airway obstruction, severe asthma, or COPD
Carrier gas for pulmonary function testing and aerosolized medications

Mechanism of Action

Inert gas with significantly lower density than nitrogen or air
Decreases gas density, converting turbulent airflow in obstructed airways to laminar flow
Reduces airway resistance and decreases the work of breathing

Contraindications

Hypoxia when administered without adequate supplemental oxygen
Conditions where inert gas narcosis or pressure changes pose a risk (not typically applicable at standard atmospheric pressure)

Adverse Reactions

Hypoxia if oxygen concentration in the gas mixture falls below 20%
Asphyxia if administered without sufficient oxygen
Voice changes (temporary high-pitched voice alteration due to altered sound wave velocity)

Drug Interactions

None significant pharmacologically as it is an inert gas
Reduces nebulizer output efficiency; aerosolized drug delivery may be altered due to differing gas density and flow dynamics

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use