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Brand Names: Minitran, Nitrek, Nitro TD Patch-A, Nitro-Dur

Generic Name: nitroglycerin (transdermal) (Pronunciation: NYE troe GLIS er in)

• What is nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• What are the possible side effects of nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• What is the most important information I should know about nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• How should I use nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Transderm Nitro)?
• What happens if I overdose (Transderm Nitro)?
• What should I avoid while using nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• What other drugs will affect nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?

Nitroglycerin is in a group of drugs called nitrates. Nitroglycerin dilates (widens) blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow through them and easier for the heart to pump.

Nitroglycerin transdermal is used to prevent attacks of chest pain (angina).

Nitroglycerin transdermal may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?

Nitroglycerin transdermal can cause severe headaches, especially when you first start using it. These headaches may gradually become less severe as you continue to use nitroglycerin transdermal. Do not stop using the medication. Ask your doctor before using any headache pain medication.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• worsening chest pain, slow heart rate;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
• fast or pounding heartbeats; or
• blurred vision and dry mouth.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild skin rash or itching;
• warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin;
• nausea, vomiting, upset stomach; or
• feeling nervous, weak, or dizzy.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about nitroglycerin transdermal (Transderm Nitro)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur), or isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil, Isordil).

Before using nitroglycerin transdermal, tell your doctor if you have congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, glaucoma, anemia, or a history of heart attack, stroke, or head injury.

Do not use this medication to treat an angina attack that has already begun. It will not work fast enough.

Nitroglycerin transdermal can cause severe headaches, especially when you first start using it. Do not stop using the skin patches, and ask your doctor before using any headache pain medication.

Nitroglycerin transdermal can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of nitroglycerin transdermal.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as worsening chest pain, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, vomiting, sweating, blurred vision and dry mouth, or fainting.