Generic

Nitroglycerin

Indications

Angina pectoris prevention with nitroglycerin is recommended. This form’s start of action is too slow to be effective in preventing an acute anginal attack.

Pharmacology

Nitroglycerin induces vascular smooth muscle relaxation, resulting in a vasodilator action on both peripheral arteries and veins. Venous dilation promotes peripheral blood pooling and reduces venous return to the heart, lowering left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (preload), whereas arterial relaxation lowers systemic vascular resistance and arterial pressure (afterload).

Dosage & Administration

Dosage should constantly be adjusted based on the particular patient’s needs and responses, as well as the intensity of the anginal discomfort. One Nitroglycerin 2.6 mg sustained release pill or capsule in the morning and evening is recommended for adults. It’s best to take this on an empty stomach.

Interaction

Nitroglycerin increases the antihypertensive effects of vasodilators, calcium antagonists, and beta-adrenergic blockers through dilation of peripheral blood arteries. High blood pressure can be caused by taking nitrates with tricyclic antidepressants and alcohol at the same time. Blood pressure drops when nitrates are used with phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors including sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil. Aspirin reduces nitroglycerin clearance while increasing its hemodynamic effects. When taken in conjunction with heparin, nitroglycerin may decrease heparin’s pharmacologic effects. The bioavailability of dihydroergotamine is increased by nitrates.

Contradiction

In individuals who have a known allergy to nitroglycerin, other organic nitrates, or nitrites, or to the medicine’s excipients, nitroglycerin is contraindicated. Acute myocardial infarction, severe anemia, head trauma, cerebral haemorrhage, or closed angle glaucoma are additional contraindications.

Side Effect

Headaches are common at the beginning of therapy, although they generally go away within a few days. If the headache continues, the dose should be reduced. Tachycardia, postural hypotension, syncope, cyanosis, and methaemoglobinemia are some of the other adverse symptoms.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Nitroglycerin should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation unless your doctor says it’s very necessary.

Precautions & Warnings

In people who are susceptible to closed-angle glaucoma, nitroglycerin should be taken with care. Sudden cessation of medication, like with other medicines used to treat angina pectoris, might cause symptoms to worsen. When stopping a long-term therapy, the dosage should be progressively lowered over several days, and the patient should be closely watched.

Therapeutic Class

Nitrates: Coronary vasodilators

Storage Conditions

Keep away from light and heat in a cool, dry area. All medications should be kept out of the reach of youngsters.

Pharmaceutical Name

Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd.