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Nitroglycerin

Pulmonary Hypertension, Diffuse Esophageal Spasm ... show more

DRUG STATUS

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Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

Unlisted

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Pharmaceutical Class

Nitrate Vasodilator

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Controlled Drug Substance

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Drug Ingredient

Nitroglycerin

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Summary

  • Nitroglycerin is primarily used to treat or prevent chest pain, known as angina, caused by heart problems. It can also manage heart failure and high blood pressure in certain cases.

  • Nitroglycerin works by converting into a gas, nitric oxide, that relaxes and widens blood vessels. This allows blood to flow more easily, reducing the workload on your heart, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the heart's need for oxygen.

  • Nitroglycerin tablets are placed under the tongue to dissolve quickly. If you have chest pain, put one tablet under your tongue. You can take another tablet every 5 minutes, but no more than 3 tablets in 15 minutes. If the pain continues, seek emergency help.

  • Common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Some people may experience nausea, and in rare cases, it can cause skin rashes, fainting, or worsen chest pain.

  • Nitroglycerin can interact with blood pressure and erectile dysfunction medications. It's not recommended for individuals with severe low blood pressure, recent heart attack, severe anemia, or those using erectile dysfunction medications due to the risk of dangerously low blood pressure.

Indications and Purpose

What is Nitroglycerin used for?

Nitroglycerin tablets dissolve under your tongue. They're used to quickly stop chest pain (angina) caused by heart problems. The pain happens when the heart doesn't get enough blood. These tablets help increase blood flow to the heart, relieving the pain. They can also be used to prevent angina attacks.

How does Nitroglycerin work?

Nitroglycerin is a medicine that helps your heart. It works by turning into a gas (nitric oxide) that relaxes the blood vessels. This makes the blood vessels wider, allowing blood to flow more easily. This reduces the workload on your heart, lowering blood pressure and the heart's need for oxygen. You'll feel the effects quickly, within a few minutes, and it lasts for a good while.

Is Nitroglycerin effective?

Yes, Nitroglycerin is highly effective for relieving angina and preventing further heart-related complications.

How does one know if Nitroglycerin is working?

You should experience relief of chest pain or a reduction in symptoms of angina shortly after taking the medication.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of Nitroglycerin?

If you have chest pain (angina), put a small tablet (0.3-0.6 mg) of nitroglycerin under your tongue. It should start to help quickly. You can take another tablet every 5 minutes, but no more than three tablets in 15 minutes total. If the pain doesn't go away, call for emergency help right away. This medicine is only for adults.

How do I take Nitroglycerin?

Nitroglycerin tablets are for chest pain. Put one tablet under your tongue when you feel pain. Let it dissolve. You can take another tablet every 5 minutes, but no more than 3 tablets in 15 minutes. If the pain doesn't go away after 3 tablets, call for help right away. It doesn't matter if you take it with food.

For how long do I take Nitroglycerin?

Nitroglycerin tablets are quick-acting medicine for chest pain (angina). If you feel chest pain, put one tablet under your tongue and let it dissolve. If the pain doesn't go away, you can take another tablet after 5 minutes, and another after 5 more minutes if needed. Don't take more than three tablets in 15 minutes. If the pain continues after three tablets, go to the hospital right away.

How long does it take for Nitroglycerin to start working?

Nitroglycerin tablets placed under the tongue dissolve quickly and get into your bloodstream very fast, working in about 6-7 minutes. Even though the main medicine is gone quickly, other related substances created by your body keep working for longer, making the overall effect last.

How should I store Nitroglycerin?

Yes, but elderly individuals may be more sensitive to side effects like low blood pressure and dizziness.

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Nitroglycerin?

  • People with severe low blood pressure, recent heart attack, or severe anemia should avoid it.
  • Not recommended for individuals using erectile dysfunction medications (e.g., sildenafil) due to the risk of dangerously low blood pressure.

Can I take Nitroglycerin with other prescription drugs?

Nitroglycerin can interact with blood pressure medications, erectile dysfunction medications, and some heart medications. Always discuss other medications with your doctor

Can I take Nitroglycerin with vitamins or supplements?

There are no significant interactions with vitamins or supplements, but always inform your doctor about any supplements you are taking.

Can Nitroglycerin be taken safely while pregnant?

Nitroglycerin should be used in pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk, as determined by your doctor.

Can Nitroglycerin be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Nitroglycerin is generally considered safe for breastfeeding, but always consult your healthcare provider.

Is Nitroglycerin safe for the elderly?

Yes, but elderly individuals may be more sensitive to side effects like low blood pressure and dizziness.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Nitroglycerin?

  • It is generally safe to exercise, but you should avoid strenuous activity if you feel dizzy or lightheaded after taking Nitroglycerin. Always follow your doctor's guidance regarding exercise.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Nitroglycerin?

Nitroglycerin tablets help your heart by relaxing blood vessels and lowering your blood pressure. Alcohol also lowers blood pressure. Taking them together could lower your blood pressure too much, which can be dangerous. It's best to avoid alcohol while using nitroglycerin.