Final answer:
Nitrous oxide in the cardiovascular system can cause peripheral vasodilation, similar to the effects of nitric oxide, which is a known vasodilator. It does not inherently lead to bradycardia but instead might increase cardiac output due to reduced afterload.
Step-by-step explanation:
The content loaded with information on the cardiovascular effects of nitrous oxide can vary depending on the context and the substance in question. In the cardiovascular system, substances such as nicotine and nitric oxide play different roles. For instance, nitric oxide, a known vasodilator, predominantly causes blood vessels to widen which could lead to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance and potentially an increase in cardiac output due to a reduced afterload on the heart.
Despite vasodilation generally being associated with a decreased breathing rate and heart rate in females, it's important to distinguish that the effect of nitrous oxide on the cardiovascular system can include peripheral vasodilation. This is similar to the effect of nitric oxide on the vasculature leading to the engorgement of erectile tissue in both males and females. However it does not directly lead to bradycardia or decreased heart rate as may be assumed from the general effects of vasodilators. Instead, nitrous oxide can lead to increased sympathetic activity and subsequently an elevated heart rate or possibly increased cardiac output.