Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen

Medical Oxygen — Respiratory Therapeutic Gas

OTC Medical Gas Inhalation
Active Ingredient
Medical oxygen (O2, 100%)
Available Forms
Compressed gas, liquid oxygen, concentrator
Prescription Status
Over-the-counter (OTC)
Known Brands
Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen
Medically reviewed by iMedic Medical Board
Evidence Level 1A

Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen is pharmaceutical-grade medical oxygen (100% O2) used to treat or prevent hypoxemia — dangerously low blood oxygen levels. It is one of the most widely used therapeutic agents in modern medicine, essential in emergency care, perioperative settings, and long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions. Medical oxygen works by increasing the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), improving alveolar gas exchange, and restoring adequate tissue oxygenation throughout the body.

Quick Facts

Active Ingredient
O2 100%
Drug Class
Medical Gas
Route
Inhalation
Common Uses
Hypoxemia
Available Forms
Gas & Liquid
Prescription Status
OTC

Key Takeaways

  • Medical oxygen is a pharmaceutical-grade gas (minimum 99.5% purity) used to correct low blood oxygen levels in both emergency and chronic care settings.
  • Target oxygen saturation is 94–98% for most patients, or 88–92% for those at risk of CO2 retention (e.g., severe COPD).
  • Excessive oxygen (hyperoxia) can cause lung damage and, in susceptible patients, suppress respiratory drive — titrated delivery is essential.
  • Medical oxygen is a significant fire hazard: keep cylinders away from open flames, sparks, and oil-based products at all times.
  • Delivery methods range from nasal cannulae and face masks to high-flow systems, non-invasive ventilation, and mechanical ventilators, depending on the clinical need.

What Is Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen and What Is It Used For?

Quick Answer: Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen is medical-grade oxygen used to treat hypoxemia (low blood oxygen) in emergency, hospital, and home settings. It is delivered by inhalation and is one of the most essential medicines in the world, listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines.

Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen contains 100% pharmaceutical-grade oxygen (O2), manufactured and tested to meet the strict quality requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) and other international pharmacopoeia standards. Unlike atmospheric air, which contains approximately 21% oxygen, medical oxygen delivers a significantly higher concentration to address conditions where the body's natural oxygen supply is insufficient.

The primary goal of oxygen therapy is to correct hypoxemia — a condition where the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2) drops below 60 mmHg, or when peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) falls below 94%. Hypoxemia can occur in a wide range of clinical situations, from acute respiratory emergencies to chronic progressive lung disease. Without adequate oxygen delivery to tissues, cellular metabolism becomes impaired, leading to organ dysfunction and, ultimately, death.

Medical oxygen is used across virtually all areas of medicine. In emergency and acute care, it is administered during cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, stroke, severe trauma, sepsis, acute asthma exacerbations, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and anaphylaxis. It is a cornerstone of resuscitation protocols worldwide, featured prominently in Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines.

In perioperative medicine, supplemental oxygen is routinely provided during and after general anaesthesia to counteract the respiratory depressant effects of anaesthetic agents and to support adequate oxygenation during mechanical ventilation. It is also used during procedural sedation and in recovery rooms.

For chronic conditions, long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is prescribed for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions causing persistent hypoxemia. Landmark trials — the Nocturnal Oxygen Therapy Trial (NOTT) and the Medical Research Council (MRC) trial — demonstrated that LTOT significantly improves survival in patients with severe COPD and resting hypoxemia when used for at least 15 hours per day.

Specialised Applications

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) delivers 100% oxygen at pressures above atmospheric level (typically 2–3 atmospheres absolute) inside a pressurised chamber. This dramatically increases the dissolved oxygen in plasma, reaching tissues independent of haemoglobin. HBOT is an evidence-based treatment for decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, gas gangrene, diabetic foot ulcers, and radiation-induced tissue injury.

Cluster headache treatment is another established use: high-flow oxygen (12–15 L/min via a non-rebreather mask for 15–20 minutes) is a first-line abortive therapy for cluster headache attacks, recommended by the European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) and other major guidelines.

Neonatal care requires carefully controlled oxygen delivery. Premature infants are vulnerable to both hypoxemia and hyperoxia; excessive oxygen exposure causes retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Target saturations in preterm neonates are typically 91–95%, monitored continuously with pulse oximetry.

What Should You Know Before Taking Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen?

Quick Answer: While medical oxygen is generally safe, it must be used with caution in patients at risk of CO2 retention (e.g., severe COPD), premature infants, and those receiving certain drugs. Oxygen is also a fire hazard and requires strict safety precautions during storage and use.

Medical oxygen is one of the safest and most essential medicines available, but it is not entirely without risk. Like any therapeutic agent, it requires appropriate prescribing, monitoring, and awareness of potential hazards. Understanding the contraindications, precautions, and special circumstances helps ensure that oxygen therapy delivers maximum benefit with minimal harm.

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications to oxygen therapy in a life-threatening emergency. However, in non-emergency settings, certain clinical situations require careful consideration:

  • Paraquat poisoning: Supplemental oxygen is generally avoided in paraquat ingestion because it may exacerbate pulmonary toxicity. Paraquat generates reactive oxygen species, and high oxygen concentrations can accelerate lung damage.
  • Certain types of undiagnosed pneumothorax: In patients with an untreated tension pneumothorax, high-flow oxygen without chest decompression may be dangerous. However, oxygen itself is not contraindicated — the underlying condition must be treated.

Warnings and Precautions

Additional precautions include:

  • Fire hazard: Oxygen strongly supports combustion. All sources of ignition — including cigarettes, candles, gas stoves, and oil-based products — must be kept at a safe distance (minimum 2–3 metres). Patients on home oxygen therapy must be counselled about fire safety, and "No Smoking" signage should be prominently displayed.
  • Oxygen toxicity: Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of oxygen (FiO2 > 0.6 for more than 24–48 hours) can cause pulmonary oxygen toxicity, characterised by inflammation, alveolar damage, and impaired gas exchange. Central nervous system oxygen toxicity (seizures) can occur during hyperbaric oxygen therapy at pressures above 2 atmospheres.
  • Absorption atelectasis: Breathing high concentrations of oxygen can cause nitrogen washout from alveoli. Since oxygen is rapidly absorbed into the blood, alveoli may collapse, particularly in regions with low ventilation-perfusion ratios.
  • Airway drying: High-flow oxygen, especially at rates above 4 L/min, can dry the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. Humidification is recommended for flow rates exceeding 4 L/min and for prolonged use.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Medical oxygen is considered safe during pregnancy when clinically indicated. Maintaining adequate maternal oxygenation is crucial for foetal well-being, as the foetus depends entirely on maternal oxygen delivery via the placenta. Hypoxemia in the mother poses a direct threat to foetal oxygen supply and can lead to foetal distress, growth restriction, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

During labour and delivery, supplemental oxygen may be administered to the mother if foetal monitoring suggests distress or if the mother develops hypoxemia. However, routine supplemental oxygen during uncomplicated labour is not recommended, as studies have not shown clear benefit and may increase free radical formation.

There are no known risks associated with medical oxygen use during breastfeeding. Oxygen is a natural component of inhaled air and does not accumulate in breast milk. Mothers requiring oxygen therapy should continue breastfeeding as normal.

Important for Patients

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medical conditions, particularly COPD, asthma, or any chronic lung disease, before starting oxygen therapy. If you are prescribed home oxygen, attend all training sessions on safe use and storage of oxygen equipment.

How Does Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen Interact with Other Drugs?

Quick Answer: Medical oxygen has relatively few direct drug interactions, but certain medications — particularly bleomycin, amiodarone, and some chemotherapeutic agents — can increase the risk of pulmonary toxicity when combined with supplemental oxygen. Awareness of these interactions is essential for safe prescribing.

Although oxygen is a natural gas rather than a conventional pharmaceutical compound, its therapeutic use at elevated concentrations can interact with several medications. These interactions generally relate to enhanced oxidative stress or altered pharmacological effects in the context of high oxygen partial pressures. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these interactions, particularly in intensive care and oncological settings.

Major Interactions

Major Drug Interactions with Medical Oxygen
Drug Interaction Clinical Significance Management
Bleomycin Significantly increased risk of pulmonary fibrosis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) High — can be fatal Avoid FiO2 > 0.30 during and after bleomycin therapy. Effect may persist for months to years after treatment.
Amiodarone Enhanced pulmonary toxicity; increased risk of ARDS, especially post-surgery High Use lowest effective FiO2. Monitor closely in perioperative settings. Consider alternative antiarrhythmics if possible.
Nitrofurantoin Possible potentiation of pulmonary adverse effects Moderate Monitor for respiratory symptoms. Use lowest effective oxygen concentration.

The interaction between bleomycin and supplemental oxygen is particularly important. Bleomycin is a chemotherapeutic agent that causes dose-dependent pulmonary damage. When patients who have received bleomycin (even months or years previously) are exposed to high oxygen concentrations — for example during surgery — they are at significantly increased risk of developing severe, potentially fatal pulmonary toxicity. Anaesthetists must always be informed of prior bleomycin exposure.

Minor Interactions

Minor Drug Interactions with Medical Oxygen
Drug Interaction Management
Opioids Oxygen may mask respiratory depression by maintaining SpO2 despite reduced respiratory rate Monitor respiratory rate and level of consciousness, not just SpO2
Benzodiazepines Similar masking effect as with opioids; may delay detection of respiratory compromise Use capnography where available; monitor respiratory rate
Doxorubicin Theoretical increase in cardiopulmonary toxicity with high-dose oxygen Use the minimum effective FiO2; monitor cardiac function

It is important to note that the interaction between oxygen and opioids is not a direct pharmacological interaction but rather a clinical phenomenon. Supplemental oxygen can maintain normal pulse oximetry readings even when a patient's respiratory rate has fallen to dangerously low levels due to opioid-induced respiratory depression. This can create a false sense of security, delaying recognition of a life-threatening situation. For this reason, respiratory rate monitoring remains essential for all patients receiving opioids, regardless of supplemental oxygen use.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen?

Quick Answer: Oxygen dosage is measured in litres per minute (L/min) and fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), titrated to achieve a target SpO2 of 94–98% for most patients, or 88–92% for those at risk of hypercapnia. Delivery device selection depends on the clinical situation and required FiO2.

Unlike conventional medications with fixed doses, medical oxygen is titrated to effect. The "dose" of oxygen is defined by the flow rate (in litres per minute) and the resulting fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), which varies depending on the delivery device used. The goal is to achieve and maintain a target oxygen saturation, as measured by pulse oximetry (SpO2) or arterial blood gas analysis.

Adults

Adult Oxygen Therapy: Delivery Devices and Flow Rates
Delivery Device Flow Rate Approximate FiO2 Typical Clinical Use
Nasal cannula 1–6 L/min 24–44% Mild hypoxemia, long-term oxygen therapy, stable patients
Simple face mask 5–10 L/min 35–55% Moderate hypoxemia, post-anaesthesia recovery
Venturi mask 2–15 L/min 24–60% (precise) COPD exacerbations, precise FiO2 control required
Non-rebreather mask 10–15 L/min 60–90% Severe hypoxemia, trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning
High-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) 30–60 L/min Up to 100% Acute respiratory failure, pre-oxygenation, post-extubation

For most acutely ill adults, the British Thoracic Society (BTS) guideline recommends starting oxygen therapy to achieve a target SpO2 of 94–98%. Oxygen should be titrated downward once the target is achieved and should not be continued unnecessarily once the patient is stable and saturating above 94% on room air.

Children

Paediatric oxygen therapy follows similar principles to adult therapy but with age-appropriate adjustments. Children have higher metabolic rates and oxygen consumption per kilogram of body weight, making them more susceptible to rapid desaturation.

Paediatric Dosing Guidelines

  • Infants and young children: Nasal cannula at 0.5–2 L/min; face mask at 5–10 L/min. Target SpO2 of 94–98%.
  • Premature neonates: Target SpO2 of 91–95% to balance the risks of hypoxemia and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
  • Oxygen hoods (headboxes): Used for neonates and small infants who do not tolerate nasal cannulae; delivers controlled FiO2.
  • High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC): Increasingly used in paediatric bronchiolitis at 2 L/kg/min (max 25 L/min in older children).

Elderly

Elderly patients are more likely to have comorbid conditions that affect oxygen therapy decisions. The prevalence of COPD and other chronic respiratory conditions is higher in older adults, increasing the risk of CO2 retention with uncontrolled oxygen use. Elderly patients with chronic hypoxemia may have adapted to lower oxygen levels, and sudden correction to normal saturations can sometimes precipitate adverse effects.

Elderly Dosing Considerations

  • Target SpO2 of 94–98% for most elderly patients without known CO2 retention risk.
  • Target SpO2 of 88–92% for patients with known or suspected chronic hypercapnia.
  • Use Venturi masks for precise FiO2 control in COPD exacerbations.
  • Monitor arterial blood gases within 30–60 minutes of starting or changing oxygen therapy.
  • Consider comorbidities such as heart failure, which may require simultaneous management.

Missed Dose

If you are prescribed continuous home oxygen therapy and miss a period of use, resume your normal schedule as soon as possible. There is no need to "make up" for missed time by increasing the flow rate. If you have been without oxygen for an extended period and experience symptoms such as breathlessness, confusion, or cyanosis (bluish discolouration of the lips or fingertips), restart your oxygen and contact your healthcare provider. Missing occasional short periods of prescribed oxygen is unlikely to cause immediate harm, but consistent adherence to the prescribed duration (usually at least 15 hours per day for LTOT) is essential for long-term benefit.

Overdose

What Are the Side Effects of Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen?

Quick Answer: Common side effects include nasal dryness, skin irritation from delivery devices, and headache. Serious but less common effects include pulmonary oxygen toxicity, absorption atelectasis, and retinopathy of prematurity in neonates. Most side effects are related to flow rate, duration, and concentration.

Medical oxygen is generally well tolerated, especially at moderate concentrations and for short durations. However, as with all therapeutic agents, it can cause adverse effects. The likelihood and severity of side effects depend on the oxygen concentration delivered (FiO2), the duration of therapy, the delivery method, and patient-specific factors. Understanding the frequency and nature of these effects helps healthcare professionals and patients weigh the risks and benefits of therapy.

Very Common (>1/10)

Affects more than 1 in 10 users

  • Nasal dryness and irritation (especially at flow rates > 4 L/min without humidification)
  • Skin irritation from nasal cannula or face mask straps
  • Dry mouth and throat

Common (1/10 – 1/100)

Affects 1 to 10 in 100 users

  • Headache (particularly at higher flow rates)
  • Claustrophobia or discomfort with face masks
  • Nasal congestion
  • Ear discomfort or sinus pain (related to gas pressure)
  • Impaired communication (mask interferes with speech)

Uncommon (1/100 – 1/1,000)

Affects 1 to 10 in 1,000 users

  • Nosebleeds (epistaxis) from mucosal drying
  • Skin breakdown around ears or nose (pressure areas from tubing)
  • Absorption atelectasis (collapse of lung segments due to nitrogen washout)
  • Anxiety or restlessness related to oxygen delivery equipment

Rare (<1/1,000)

Affects fewer than 1 in 1,000 users

  • Pulmonary oxygen toxicity (tracheobronchitis, diffuse alveolar damage — with prolonged high-concentration use)
  • Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in premature neonates receiving supplemental oxygen
  • Central nervous system oxygen toxicity (seizures — primarily during hyperbaric therapy)
  • Bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants
  • Hypercapnic respiratory failure (in susceptible COPD patients receiving uncontrolled high-flow oxygen)

The most important principle in preventing oxygen side effects is to use the minimum concentration and duration necessary to achieve the target oxygen saturation. Humidification reduces mucosal dryness, and regular monitoring ensures that oxygen is titrated appropriately. Patients on long-term oxygen therapy should have regular follow-up appointments to assess ongoing need, check equipment, and manage any device-related skin issues.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention if you experience worsening breathlessness while on oxygen therapy, chest pain, persistent headache, confusion or drowsiness, vision changes, or any symptoms that concern you. In an emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

How Should You Store Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen?

Quick Answer: Store oxygen cylinders upright in a well-ventilated area, at room temperature (15–25°C), away from heat, flames, and flammable materials. Secure cylinders to prevent falling. Keep valve caps on when not in use. Do not store in enclosed, unventilated spaces.

Proper storage of medical oxygen is essential for both safety and efficacy. Compressed oxygen cylinders and liquid oxygen containers present specific hazards if mishandled, including fire risk, explosion risk (if exposed to extreme heat), and physical injury risk from the weight and pressure of cylinders. Following manufacturer instructions and regulatory guidelines ensures safe use in both hospital and home settings.

General Storage Guidelines

  • Temperature: Store at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 25°C (59–77°F). Avoid exposure to temperatures above 50°C (122°F) and do not expose to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
  • Ventilation: Always store in a well-ventilated area. Never store oxygen cylinders in sealed closets, car boots, or other enclosed spaces where oxygen could accumulate in the event of a leak, creating a fire-enriched atmosphere.
  • Position: Store cylinders upright and secure them with a stand, chain, or strap to prevent them from falling. A falling cylinder with a damaged valve can become a dangerous projectile.
  • Distance from heat and flame: Maintain at least 3 metres (10 feet) between oxygen equipment and any open flame, heater, gas stove, or fireplace. Post "No Smoking" signs in the vicinity.
  • Oil and grease: Never lubricate oxygen equipment valves or regulators with oil, grease, or petroleum-based products, as these can ignite spontaneously in the presence of high-pressure oxygen.
  • Segregation: Store full and empty cylinders separately, and keep medical oxygen away from flammable gases or materials.

Home Oxygen Storage

Patients using home oxygen therapy should receive specific training from their equipment provider. Key home storage points include: keep the concentrator or cylinders in a room with good airflow; do not drape fabric or clothing over concentrators; ensure the concentrator's air intake is not obstructed; keep the equipment away from curtains and soft furnishings; and have working smoke detectors installed in the home. Fire safety services in many regions offer free home oxygen risk assessments.

Expiry and Disposal

Medical oxygen cylinders have an expiry date printed on the label. Do not use expired cylinders. Empty or expired cylinders should be returned to the supplier for refilling, testing, or disposal. Do not attempt to refill cylinders yourself. Liquid oxygen containers should be handled according to the manufacturer's instructions, and any leaking containers should be moved to a well-ventilated area and the supplier contacted immediately.

What Does Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen Contain?

Quick Answer: Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen contains 100% medical-grade oxygen (O2) meeting European Pharmacopoeia standards (minimum 99.5% purity). There are no excipients, preservatives, or additives.

Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen is a single-component pharmaceutical product containing only molecular oxygen (O2). Unlike most conventional medicines, it contains no excipients, inactive ingredients, fillers, preservatives, colourings, or flavourings. The product is the pure active substance itself.

Active Ingredient

  • Oxygen (O2): Minimum purity of 99.5% v/v, as specified by the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) monograph for "Oxygen" and international equivalent standards.

Purity Specifications

Medical oxygen is manufactured to pharmaceutical-grade standards, which are significantly more stringent than those for industrial oxygen. Key purity requirements include:

  • Oxygen content: Not less than 99.5% v/v
  • Carbon monoxide (CO): Not more than 5 ppm (parts per million)
  • Carbon dioxide (CO2): Not more than 300 ppm
  • Water (moisture): Not more than 67 ppm (equivalent to a dew point of −46°C at atmospheric pressure)
  • No oil or particulate contamination

Manufacturing occurs under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) conditions at licensed pharmaceutical facilities. The oxygen is typically produced by cryogenic distillation of atmospheric air, which separates oxygen from nitrogen and other gases by exploiting their different boiling points. Some facilities produce oxygen by pressure swing adsorption (PSA), particularly for on-site hospital generation; PSA-generated oxygen typically achieves 93–96% purity and is acceptable for medical use where specified.

Packaging

Medical oxygen is supplied in colour-coded cylinders (white shoulder with white body in many countries, following ISO 32 standards; green in the United States). Cylinders are made of steel or aluminium alloy and are pressure-rated for safe containment. Common cylinder sizes include B (170 litres), D (340 litres), E (680 litres), F (1,360 litres), G (3,400 litres), and H (6,800 litres). Liquid oxygen is supplied in insulated cryogenic vessels (Dewars) for higher-volume use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen is medical-grade oxygen (100% O2) used to treat or prevent hypoxemia — dangerously low blood oxygen levels. It is commonly used in acute conditions such as respiratory failure, heart attacks, severe asthma, carbon monoxide poisoning, and during surgical procedures. It can also be prescribed for long-term home oxygen therapy in chronic conditions like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis.

Medicinsk Oxygen Strandmollen is classified as over-the-counter (OTC) in many jurisdictions, meaning it can be dispensed without a prescription for emergency or short-term use. However, long-term home oxygen therapy typically requires a prescription and medical supervision. Regulations vary by country, so always consult local guidelines and your healthcare provider before starting oxygen therapy.

Excessive oxygen administration (hyperoxia) can cause oxygen toxicity, leading to lung damage (pulmonary oxygen toxicity) and, in premature infants, retinopathy of prematurity. In patients with chronic CO2 retention, high-flow oxygen can suppress respiratory drive, potentially causing dangerous CO2 accumulation. The recommended target oxygen saturation is 94–98% for most patients, or 88–92% for those at risk of hypercapnia.

Yes, medical oxygen can be used safely at home when prescribed and supervised by a healthcare provider. Essential safety measures include keeping oxygen equipment away from open flames, not smoking near oxygen, ensuring proper ventilation, regular equipment maintenance, and monitoring oxygen saturation levels. Patients on home oxygen therapy should receive thorough training from their healthcare team and equipment provider.

Store oxygen cylinders upright in a well-ventilated area at room temperature (15–25°C), at least 3 metres from open flames, heaters, or flammable materials. Secure cylinders to prevent falling, keep valve caps in place when not in use, and never lubricate valves with oil or grease. Do not store in enclosed spaces like closets or car boots. Have working smoke detectors installed and post "No Smoking" signage.

Medical oxygen is pharmaceutical-grade oxygen meeting strict purity standards (minimum 99.5% O2), manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and tested for contaminants including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and moisture. Industrial oxygen may contain impurities that are acceptable for welding and manufacturing but harmful to inhale. Never use industrial oxygen for medical purposes — it is not tested or certified for human inhalation.

References

This article is based on international medical guidelines and peer-reviewed research. All medical claims are supported by evidence level 1A (systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials) where available.

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  3. Nocturnal Oxygen Therapy Trial Group. Continuous or nocturnal oxygen therapy in hypoxemic chronic obstructive lung disease. Ann Intern Med. 1980;93(3):391–398.
  4. Medical Research Council Working Party. Long-term domiciliary oxygen therapy in chronic hypoxic cor pulmonale complicating chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Lancet. 1981;1(8222):681–686.
  5. Chu DK, Kim LH, Young PJ, et al. Mortality and morbidity in acutely ill adults treated with liberal versus conservative oxygen therapy (IOTA): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet. 2018;391(10131):1693–1705.
  6. European Medicines Agency. European Pharmacopoeia monograph: Oxygen. Ph. Eur. 10th Edition.
  7. Siemieniuk RAC, Chu DK, Kim LH, et al. Oxygen therapy for acutely ill medical patients: a clinical practice guideline. BMJ. 2018;363:k4169.
  8. British National Formulary (BNF). Oxygen. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Updated 2025.
  9. Goldstein RS, Gort EH, Stubbing D, et al. Randomised controlled trial of respiratory rehabilitation. Lancet. 1994;344(8934):1394–1397.
  10. Bennett MH, Lehm JP, Mitchell SJ, Wasiak J. Recompression and adjunctive therapy for decompression illness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;(5):CD005277.

Editorial Team

This article has been written and reviewed by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team, a multidisciplinary group of healthcare professionals with expertise in respiratory medicine, pharmacology, and emergency medicine.

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iMedic Medical Editorial Team — specialists in respiratory medicine and pharmacology with documented academic and clinical experience.

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