Nitroglycerine

Nitroglycerin is a long-standing drug used mainly to treat angina pectoris (chest pain) of coronary artery disease. It belongs to the class of drugs called nitrates . Nitroglycerin corrects the imbalance between the flow of oxygen and blood to the heart and the heart’s energy demand. Nitroglycerin was initially prepared by chemist Ascanio Sobrero in 1847. At first, it was known for its explosive character, and only in the late 19th century was its medicinal value realized. Dr. William Murrell pioneered nitroglycerin as a treatment for angina in 1879, making it move from being an industrial explosive to a therapeutic drug.

Mechanism of Action;

 Nitroglycerin corrects the imbalance between the flow of oxygen and blood to the heart and the heart’s energy demand. It relaxes the blood vessels (vasodilation) that inturn supply enough oxygen and blood to the heart. Chest pain or angina arise when heart could not get ample oxygen and blood.
Indication
Nitroglycerin is mainly used for:
Treatment of Angina Pectoris
Prophylaxis/  Prevention of Angina Pectoris

Dose & Dosage form

0.3 mg, 0.4mg, 0.6mg sublingual tablets

400 mcg/spray lingual aerosol

Transdermal nitroglycerin patch

Transdermal nitroglycerin ointment

Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets typically provide relief in one to five minutes. However, you can take another tablet five minutes after taking the first one if the pain does not go away. A third tablet might be administered if the pain lasts for five more minutes. After taking three tablets, if your chest pain persists, call your doctor or visit the hospital emergency room immediately.When chest pain first appears, you can give one or two sprays of nitroglycerin oral spray. After five minutes, a third spray could be applied if the pain persists. Before employing a third spray, you have to wait five minutes after the first two or three.

Adverse Effects

Some common side effects are as

Headache; may bedue to blood vessel dilation.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness: may be seen upon longtime standing.

Flushing: Appearance of warm or red skin.

Hypotension: Low blood pressure that may be severe.

Reflex Tachycardia: Increased heart rate as a compensatory mechanism.

serious side effects