Glyceryl Trinitrate

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Angised (tabs)

Drug group:

Anti-angina drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Glyceryl trinitrate is a nitrate used to relieve angina type chest pain
• The injectable form is given to patients in hospital with severe angina, heart failure, and extremely high blood pressure
• Glyceryl trinitrate may also be used topically to treat anal fissures

 How does it work?

Glyceryl trinitrate causes dilatation of the blood vessels in the heart improving blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle

How should it be used?

Glyceryl trinitrate is best taken for the first time while sitting, as it can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure which could result in fainting.

What is the typical dosage?

Glyceryl trinitrate is available in short-acting forms (sublingual/buccal tablets, ointment, spray) and long-acting forms (slow-release tablets and patches).

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Use short-acting form at the onset of an attack or immediately prior to exercise
• Dose may be repeated within 5 minutes if required
• Seek medical care if pain persists after 3 doses taken within 15 minutes

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. 
                 

Is it safe for prolonged use?

The drug usually becomes slightly weaker over time as the body adapts.

Timing of the doses may be changed to prevent this effect. Regular blood pressure checks are usually required when the drug is used for angina.                          

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: flushing, headache (will resolve once dose is adjusted)
• Less common: lowered blood pressure (dizziness, fainting, collapse)
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: severe dizziness, fainting or collapse

OVERDOSE ACTION

Seek urgent medical advice. Large overdoses may cause symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, severe headache, sweating, fits, or loss of consciousness.

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: other heart conditions, liver/kidney/lung/thyroid problems, blood disorders, glaucoma, low blood pressure, anaemia, recent head injury or stroke
• Other medicines: Antihypertensive drugs, other anti-angina drugs, drugs for erectile dysfunction eg. sildenafil/tadalafil/vardenafil
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not usually prescribed
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: caution, the drug can cause dizziness
• Alcohol: Avoid, alcohol can increase the risk of lower blood pressure