Nitrostat (Nitroglycerin) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Angina »

Angina facts

Angina is one of many causes of chest pain.
Angina is chest pain that is a result of inadequate oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
Angina can be caused by coronary artery disease or spasm of the coronary arteries.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), exercise stress test, stress echocardiography, stress thallium, and cardiac catheterization are important in the diagnosis of angina.
Treatment of angina includes rest, medications, angioplasty, and/or coronary artery bypass surgery.

Introduction to angina

Angina is one of the serious causes of chest pain. “Angina” is an abbreviation of angina pectoris, a Latin term for “squeezing of the chest.” Chest pain is a common symptom caused by many different conditions. Some causes require prompt medical attention, such as angina, heart attack, blood clots i...

Read the Angina article »

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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

NITROGLYCERIN EXTENDED-RELEASE CAPSULE - ORAL

(NYE-troe-GLIS-er-in)

USES: Nitroglycerin extended-release capsules are used to prevent chest pain (angina) in people with a certain heart condition (coronary artery disease). This medication 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.

This medication will not relieve chest pain once it occurs. It is also not intended to be taken just before physical activities (such as exercise, sexual activity) to prevent chest pain. Other medications may be needed in these situations. Consult your doctor for more details.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually 3 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. It is important to take the drug at the same times each day. Do not change the dosing times unless directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can release all of the drug at once and may increase your risk of side effects.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Although unlikely, when this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well and may require different dosing. Tell your doctor if this medication stops working well (for example, you have worsening chest pain or it occurs more often).