Nitroglycerin (Glyceryl Trinitrate)

Uses

The drug is prescribed for the treatment of angina (decreased cardiac blood flow causing chest discomfort).

IUPAC Name: 1,3-nitrooxypropanol-2-yl nitrate

Drug Class: Nitrate Vasodilator

Route of administration: Oral, sublingual, transdermal patch, spray, intravenous

This is a prescribed drug and not an OTC Drug

Drug Action Mechanism 

This medication is short-acting nitrate. It functions by relaxing or widening the blood vessels, which lowers the heart’s need for oxygen and lessens the burden on the heart, avoiding angina (heart-related chest discomfort).    

Side Effects

It could result in lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, headache, flushing, vision problems, and palpitations.

Precautions

Before using this medication, take the following precautions and notify your doctor:

• If the person is allergic to the drug or other nitrates, or if the person has other allergies,
• If the person is taking any other medication (prescribed, non-prescribed, or herbal products),
• If the person has or ever had a heart attack or other cardiac disanaemiaanemia (low red blood cells), increased pressure inside the skull, hypotension (low blood pressure), abnormally fast heart rate, head injury, dehydration, stomach cramps,
• If the person has undergone any type of surgery i.e., eye or ear surgery, 
• While taking this medication, limit alcohol usage since it increases the chances of developing blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. It may also cause a loss of alertness.
• Avoid abruptly discontinuing this medication without consulting the doctor. Otherwise, the person can get a serious angina attack.
• The adverse effects of this medication may affect elder people more severely.
• Anyone under the age of 18 years is not allowed to use this medication.
• Consult a doctor if the person is pregnant or breastfeeding.