Nitroglycerin
Nitroglycerin 0.3mg, 0.6mg, 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg
Nitroglycerin is a medication utilized primarily for the management of angina pectoris, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing for improved blood flow and reduced heart workload. Often administered in various forms, including sublingual tablets and patches, nitroglycerin provides rapid relief from angina symptoms and is also used in emergencies to treat heart attacks and other serious cardiovascular conditions.
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Nitroglycerin is a medication primarily used to treat angina pectoris (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease. It is a vasodilator that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing for improved blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
Uses / Indications
- Management of acute angina attacks
- Prevention of angina attacks
- Adjunct treatment for heart failure
- Controlled hypotension during surgery
- Treatment of anal fissures (topical application)
Dosage and Administration
Adults:
For angina, the typical starting dose is 0.3 to 0.6 mg sublingually as needed, with a maximum dose of 3 tablets within 15 minutes. For long-acting forms, maintenance doses may range from 2.5 to 6.5 mg taken 2 to 3 times daily.
Note: Dosage may vary based on individual response and doctor’s advice.
How It Works (Mechanism of Action)
Nitroglycerin works by converting to nitric oxide in the body, which relaxes the smooth muscle of blood vessels. This leads to vasodilation, reducing the heart’s workload by lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow to the heart, which alleviates angina symptoms.
Side Effects
Common side effects:
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Flushing of the skin
Rare/serious side effects:
- Severe hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Fainting or syncope
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.
Precautions / Warnings
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of low blood pressure, heart problems, or head trauma.
- Use with caution if taking medications for erectile dysfunction, as they can cause significant hypotension.
- Avoid alcohol as it may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Nitroglycerin.
Drug Interactions
May interact with:
- Other vasodilators
- Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil)
- Certain antihypertensive medications
- Alcohol
Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you’re taking.
Storage Instructions
- Store at room temperature (20°C–25°C / 68°F–77°F)
- Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct light
- Ensure that the medication is kept in its original container
- Keep out of reach of children
Missed Dose / Overdose
Missed a dose?
For regular dosage forms, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up.
Overdose symptoms:
- Severe headache
- Extreme dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Loss of consciousness
Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical help immediately.
Contraindications
- Allergic to Nitroglycerin or other nitrates
- Concurrent use of PDE5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction
- Severe anemia
- Increased intracranial pressure
Brand Names / Alternatives
- Nitrostat
- Nitrobid
- Nitro-Dur
- Generic name: Nitroglycerin