Nitroglycerin (Tablet)
Generic Details
Generic Name
Nitroglycerin Tablet
Other Names
- Nitrostat
- Nitroquick
- Nitrolingual
Drug Class
- Organic nitrate
Chemical Formula
C3H5N3O9
Molecular Weight
227.09 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Relaxes smooth muscle, dilates blood vessels, and increases blood flow to the heart
Indications
- Angina pectoris
- Acute myocardial infarction
Common Dosage Forms
- Sublingual tablet
- Buccal tablet
Typical Dosage
- 0.3-0.6 mg sublingually as needed for chest pain every 5 minutes for a maximum of 3 doses
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric Dosage
- Consider lower initial doses due to increased sensitivity in the elderly
Side Effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hypotension
- Flushing
- Tachycardia
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to nitrates
- Severe anemia
- Hypotension
- Increased intracranial pressure
Pregnancy Category
- C - Safety in pregnancy has not been established
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding, monitor infant for signs of hypotension
Drug Interactions
- Hypotensive effects may be enhanced with alcohol, antihypertensives, vasodilators
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe hypotension
- Methemoglobinemia
- Cardiovascular collapse
Antidote for Overdose
- Methylene blue
- Vasopressors for severe cases
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed through the oral mucosa
- Distribution: Distributes widely in the tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to active metabolites
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in the urine
Precautions
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent rebound angina
- Monitor blood pressure and heart rate closely during therapy
Warnings
- May develop tolerance with prolonged use
- Avoid use in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Others
- Nitroglycerin tablets should be kept in their original container and away from moisture to prevent degradation.