Kaufman MJ, Meloni EG. Xenon gas as a potential treatment for opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and related disorders. Med Gas Res. 2025 Jun 1;15(2):234-253. doi: 10.4103/mgr.MEDGASRES-D-24-00063. Epub 2025 Jan 13. PMID: 39812023; PMCID: PMC11918480.
Abstract
Xenon gas is considered to be a safe anesthetic and imaging agent. Research on its other potentially beneficial effects suggests that xenon may have broad efficacy for treating health disorders. A number of reviews on xenon applications have been published, but none have focused on substance use disorders. Accordingly, we review xenon effects and targets relevant to the treatment of substance use disorders, with a focus on opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. We report that xenon inhaled at subsedative concentrations inhibits conditioned memory reconsolidation and opioid withdrawal symptoms. We review work by others reporting on the antidepressant, anxiolytic, and analgesic properties of xenon, which could diminish negative affective states and pain. We discuss research supporting the possibility that xenon could prevent analgesic- or stress-induced opioid tolerance and, by so doing could reduce the risk of developing opioid use disorder. The rapid kinetics, favorable safety and side effect profiles, and multitargeting capability of xenon suggest that it could be used as an ambulatory on-demand treatment to rapidly attenuate maladaptive memory, physical and affective withdrawal symptoms, and pain drivers of substance use disorders when they occur. Xenon may also have human immunodeficiency virus and oncology applications because its effects relevant to substance use disorders could be exploited to target human immunodeficiency virus reservoirs, human immunodeficiency virus protein-induced abnormalities, and cancers. Although xenon is expensive, low concentrations exert beneficial effects, and gas separation, recovery, and recycling advancements will lower xenon costs, increasing the economic feasibility of its therapeutic use. More research is needed to better understand the remarkable repertoire of effects of xenon and its potential therapeutic applications.
Key Words: alcohol use disorder; glioblastoma; glycogen synthase kinase 3; HIV; hyperkatifeia; memory reconsolidation; opioid use disorder; posttraumatic stress disorder; withdrawal symptoms; xenon
The Substance Use Disorder Publications section presents key scientific research exploring the therapeutic potential of xenon gas in treating addiction-related conditions, including opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder.
A recent peer-reviewed study published in Medical Gas Research (2025) highlights xenon as a promising non-addictive treatment option. The research demonstrates that xenon inhalation at low concentrations can reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and inhibit conditioned memory reconsolidation, a critical process in addiction and relapse.
Xenon’s unique multi-target mechanism allows it to influence several biological pathways involved in substance use disorders. These include modulation of pain perception, reduction of anxiety and depressive symptoms, and stabilization of emotional states that often drive continued substance use.
The study also suggests that xenon may help prevent opioid tolerance and reduce the risk of developing dependence. Its rapid onset of action and favorable safety profile make it a strong candidate for on-demand therapeutic use in clinical and outpatient settings.
Beyond addiction, xenon’s biological effects may have broader applications, including potential roles in oncology and HIV-related conditions. Advances in gas recovery and recycling technologies are also improving the economic feasibility of xenon-based treatments.
This growing body of research positions xenon gas as a novel and versatile therapeutic tool for substance use disorders, with the potential to transform current treatment approaches.
Can xenon be used to treat substance use disorders?
Research suggests that xenon inhalation may help reduce withdrawal symptoms, modulate memory reconsolidation, and support treatment of opioid and alcohol use disorders.
How does xenon affect addiction?
Xenon influences multiple pathways, including memory, pain, and emotional regulation, helping reduce cravings, withdrawal, and relapse risk.
Is xenon effective for opioid withdrawal?
Studies indicate that xenon can reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and may help prevent tolerance and dependence.
Can xenon help with alcohol use disorder?
Yes, research suggests xenon may reduce anxiety, depression, and cravings associated with alcohol use disorder.
Is xenon therapy safe?
Xenon has a strong safety profile as an anesthetic and is being studied for broader therapeutic use at low concentrations.