Evaluation of the Effects of PAKDAM, an Invented Device to Get Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen, in the Consumers: A Report of Pilot Study.

Background: Since last decade, a device called PAKDAM (means clean inspiration) was invented in Iran which has been used in some cafe to prepare N₂O and O₂ as a new instrument instead of using water pipe. This study aimed to evaluate the respiratory and health effects of Pakdam and investigate its short and midterm side effects in users.

Materials and methods: In a case-control pilot study between September 2021 and March 2022, 152 individuals were divided into two groups: 76 consumers (case) and 76 non- consumers (control). Both groups were divided into two groups of 36 smokers and 36 non-smokers. Participants signed the participation form and filled out the demographic data questionnaire, and then their vital signs, O₂ saturation, expiratory CO, and spirometry tests were recorded.

Results: The subjects who used the device had a mean blood pressure of 123.71±16.11 mmHg, oxygen saturation of 97.2±1.9, exhaled carbon monoxide of 9.8±5.5, and an FVC / FEV1 ratio of 88.5±7.9. These figures in control group were (137.79±18.15) - (94.1±4.2) - (14.3 ± 9.3) and (83.9 ± 10.4), respectively. In addition to the effects on the respiratory system, consumers had lower heart rates and lower systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

Conclusion: The blood oxygen level and FEV1/FVC ratio were higher in subjects using Pakdam and the amount of exhaled carbon monoxide and blood pressure were lower. This condition was more common in smokers and less in non-smokers. It is possible to see the favorable effects of using Pakdam device on people especially in smokers.