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Nitroglycerin

This form:

Pronounced

"nye-troh-GLISS-er-in"

Common brand names:

Nitrostat

Uses

This medication is used to relieve chest pain (angina) in people that have a certain heart condition (coronary artery disease). It may also be used before physical activities (such as exercise, sexual activity) to help prevent chest pain.

Nitroglycerin belongs to a class of drugs known as nitrates. Angina occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough blood. This drug works by relaxing and widening blood vessels so blood can flow more easily to the heart.

How to Use This Medication

Ask your doctor now for exact instructions on how to use your nitroglycerin and when to call for emergency medical help (911).

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using nitroglycerin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Sit down before using this medication. Place 1 tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve as directed by your doctor. Do not chew or swallow the tablet. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

If you are using this medication to prevent chest pain before physical activities, use it 5 to 10 minutes before the activity.

If you are using this medication to relieve chest pain once it occurs, use it as soon as possible. If your chest pain has not improved or if it has worsened 5 minutes after you use this drug, call emergency medical help (911). After calling the emergency number, use another dose. Five minutes after the second dose, if you still have chest pain and the ambulance has not arrived, use a third dose. If your chest pain is not gone after 15 minutes and 3 doses of nitroglycerin, call emergency medical help (911) if you have not called already. Do not use more than 3 doses during an attack unless directed by your doctor.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

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Information expires December 2025.