Nitroglycerin is in a class of Prescription medications called vasodilators. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not need to work as hard and therefore does not need as much oxygen.
- Nitroglycerin are used to treat and prevent episodes of angina in indiviuals who have coronary artery disease (narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart). It is also used just before activities that may cause episodes of angina in order to prevent the angina from occurring.
- This drug works by relaxing the smooth muscle and blood vessels in your body. This increases the amount of blood and oxygen that reaches your heart. In turn, your heart works less hard. This reduces chest pain.
- This drug may lower your blood presure and orthostatic hypotension.
- Nitroglycerin sublingual tablet is available as both a generic and brand-name drug. Brand names: Nitrostat,Nitromist,Nitroquick,Nitrolingual,Nitro-Dur,Minitran,Nitro-Bid etc
- It was granted FDA approval in 1938.
Side effects
Common side effects include:
- lightneadedness
- headache
Other side effects include:
- Sweating a lot
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Fainting
- Dry mouth
- Fast or slow heart beat
Serious side effects:
Low Blood pressure
Flushing of the head and neck can occur.
Pregnancy and Nitroglycerin:
Nitroglycerin falls into category C. No animal studies have been conducted with nitroglycerin transdermal patches. No well-controlled studies have been conducted in pregnant women. Nitroglycerin should only be given to a pregnant woman if clearly needed.
Dosage
For angina pectoris prophylaxis:
SUBLINGUAL TABLET:
0.3 to 0.6 mg sublingually or in the buccal pouch 5 to 10 minutes prior to engaging in activities that might precipitate an acute attack .
For Myocardial Infarction
5 mcg/min continuous IV infusion via non-absorptive tubing; increase by 5 mcg/min every 3 to 5 minutes as needed up to 20 mcg/min, then by 10 or 20 mcg/min if needed
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