Nitric oxide may be harmful for lung injury patients

Doctors often use inhaled nitric oxide to treat patients with acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome. No evidence existed as to whether nitric oxide was beneficial until researchers examined 1,237 patients in 12 trials. Analysis of the patients showed that the patients did not benefit from the nitric oxide, but actually were at a higher risk of developing kidney dysfunction. Researchers concluded that it has no benefit in the survival of these patients, and the use of it should be discontinued.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/03/070322191224.htm