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Nitrostat®
(Nitroglycerin Sublingual Tablets, USP)

Read this information carefully before you start NITROSTAT® (NYE-troe-stat) and each time you refill your prescription. There may be new information. This information does not replace talking with your doctor. If you have any questions about NITROSTAT, ask your doctor. Your doctor will know if NITROSTAT is right for you.

What is NITROSTAT?

NITROSTAT is a type of medicine known as an organic nitrate and is a vasodilating agent. It is used to treat a type of chest pain called angina.

What is Angina?

Angina is a pain or discomfort that keeps coming back when part of your heart does not get enough blood. Angina feels like a pressing or squeezing pain, usually in your chest under the breastbone. Sometimes you can feel it in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaws, or back. NITROSTAT can relieve this pain.

Who should not use NITROSTAT?

Do not use NITROSTAT if you are allergic to organic nitrates (like the active ingredient in NITROSTAT).

You should not take NITROSTAT if you have the following conditions:

• very recent heart attack
• severe anemia
• increased pressure in the head

Do not take NITROSTAT with drugs for erectile dysfunction, like VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate), CIALIS® (tadalafil), or LEVITRA® (vardenafil hydrochloride), as this may lead to extreme lowering of your blood pressure.

What should I tell my doctor before taking NITROSTAT?

Before using NITROSTAT, tell your doctor if:

• You are taking any medicines that are used to treat angina, heart failure, or an irregular heartbeat.
• You are taking any medicines that reduce blood pressure.
• You are taking any diuretics (water pills).
• You are taking medications to treat depression or psychiatric illness.
• You are taking ergotamine or similar drugs for migraine headaches.
• You are taking aspirin.
• You are taking the blood thinner medicine heparin.
• You are taking any medicines for erectile dysfunction.
• You are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
• You are breastfeeding.

How should I take NITROSTAT?

• Do not chew, crush, or swallow NITROSTAT tablets.
• You should sit down when taking NITROSTAT tablets and use caution when you stand up. This eliminates the possibility of falling due to lightheadedness or dizziness.
• One tablet should be dissolved under the tongue or in the oral cavity at the first sign of chest pain.
• The dose may be repeated approximately every 5 minutes, until the chest pain is relieved.
• If the pain persists after a total of 3 tablets in a 15-minute period, or is different than you typically experience, call your doctor or seek emergency help.
• NITROSTAT may be used 5 to 10 minutes prior to activities that might cause chest pain.
• You may feel a burning or tingling sensation in your mouth when you take NITROSTAT.

What should I avoid while taking NITROSTAT?

• Do not breastfeed. It is not known if NITROSTAT will pass through your milk.
• Do not consume alcohol while taking NITROSTAT, as this can lower your blood pressure.
• Do not start any new prescription or non-prescription medicines or supplements, unless you check with your doctor first.

What are the possible side effects of NITROSTAT?

NITROSTAT may cause the following side effects:

• headache
• vertigo (a major symptom of balance disorder)
• dizziness
• weakness
• heart palpitations (unusual awareness of the heartbeat)
• low blood pressure upon rising from a seated position
• nausea and vomiting
• sweating
• paleness
• fainting
• flushing (warm or red condition of your skin)
• other skin reactions that may be severe

NITROSTAT may cause a false test result of decreased serum cholesterol.

Tell your doctor if you are concerned about any side effects you experience. These are not all the possible side effects of NITROSTAT. For a complete list, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

How do I store NITROSTAT?

NITROSTAT should be kept in the original glass container and tightly capped after each use to prevent loss of tablet potency. Store NITROSTAT tablets at room temperature (between 68° and 77°F).

General advice about NITROSTAT

Sometimes doctors will prescribe a medicine for a condition that is not included in the patient information leaflets. Only use NITROSTAT the way your doctor told you to. Do not give NITROSTAT to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them.

You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about NITROSTAT, or you can visit the Pfizer website at www.pfizer.com or call 1-800-438-1985.

Last reviewed on RxList: 8/5/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.