Headaches and Nitroglycerin Patch

The
 nitroglycerin patch (Minitran™, Nitro-Dur®) is a prescription medicine commonly used to help prevent chest pain (angina) in adults with coronary artery disease. Although most people tolerate this medicine well, it is possible to develop side effects. Clinical studies have shown that the most common side effect of the nitroglycerin patch is headaches, occurring in up to 63 percent of people.
 
These headaches can be quite severe and can occur every time a person uses the patch. Headaches are most commonly seen with a higher nitroglycerin patch dosage. However, do not try to adjust your dosage or skip doses to avoid headaches; make sure to talk to your healthcare provider first.
 
(Click Nitroglycerin Patch Side Effects for a more complete list of possible reactions, including headaches and other potential side effects of the nitroglycerin patch. This article also explains which problems require immediate medical attention.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD