Nitric oxide is a biological mediator in human organisms which plays important roles in tissue and organ hemostasis. Recent advances in the therapeutic uses of inhaled nitric oxide in lung diseases and other pathologic states urges the efficient and appropriate use of nitric oxide in hospitals. This study is a literature search based on a keyword search and the abstracts in English in Medline. The therapeutic indications for inhaled nitric oxide and various clinical applications are summarized. Subsequently, adverse effects and toxicity for inhaled nitric oxide and contraindications for its use are discussed.

Nitric oxide is a biological mediator in human organisms which plays important roles in tissue and organ hemostasis. Recent advances in the therapeutic uses of inhaled nitric oxide in lung diseases and other pathologic states urges the efficient and appropriate use of nitric oxide in hospitals. This study is a literature search based on a keyword search and the abstracts in English in Medline. The therapeutic indications for inhaled nitric oxide and various clinical applications are summarized. Subsequently, adverse effects and toxicity for inhaled nitric oxide and contraindications for its use are discussed.