Abstract

Introduction: Intermittent normobaric hypoxia consists of the administration of air reduced in oxygen by episodes, to achieve hypoxia in blood alternated with intervals of normoxia. It has a role in brain development and neuroprotection. However, in the literature there are only studies in animal models. Objective: To determine the existence of psychiatric effects of intermittent normobaric hypoxia in humans. Method: Prospective descriptive study. We included patients over 18 years of age who had an intermittent normobaric hypoxia plan scheduled at the Hipoxykine clinic. A record sheet and the brief symptom inventory (BSI) were carried out at the beginning, middle (second week) and end of treatment (fourth week). Results: We included 22 participants (50% women) with a median age of 46 years. There was a reduction in the overall severity index of the statistically significant (p <0.05) when comparing both the first and second measurements with respect to the final. Regarding the analysis according to gender, this difference was statistically significant (p <0.05) in men. Conclusions: Intermittent normobaric hypoxia does not produce or worsen psychiatric symptoms. It could have therapeutic potential. Further prospective studies are required. © 2023 Sociedad de Neurologia Psiquiatria y Neurocirugia. All rights reserved.