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Nitroglycerin is a medicine most commonly prescribed to relieve or prevent episodes of chest pain (angina). This drug works by relaxing the arteries and veins in the body to improve blood flow to the heart. Several forms of nitroglycerin are available, including capsules, tablets, patches, an ointment, and an intravenous solution. Side effects may include fainting, headaches, and lightheadedness.
What Is Nitroglycerin?
Nitroglycerin (Minitran™, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrolingual®, NitroMist®, Nitrostat®, Rectiv™) is a prescription medication used for a few different purposes. The most common use of this drug is treating or preventing chest pain (angina). It comes in several forms, including tablets, capsules, patches, an ointment, and an intravenous (IV) solution.(Click Nitroglycerin Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Are There Side Effects?
Just like any medicine, nitroglycerin may cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.If adverse reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of nitroglycerin include but are not limited to:
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Fainting.
(Click Nitroglycerin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)