How is Nitroglycerin dosed?
The dosage instructions for nitroglycerin are as follows:
- Sublingual powder: Empty the contents of a packet under your tongue, close your mouth, and breathe normally. Allow the powder to dissolve without swallowing. Do not take more than 3 packets in 15 minutes. If you still have pain after taking a total of 3 packets, this is an emergency. Call 911. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
- Sublingual tablets: Place the tablet under the tongue or between the cheek and gum, and let it dissolve. Do not eat, drink, smoke, or use chewing tobacco while a tablet is dissolving.
- Oral spray: Administer 1 or 2 sprays at the onset of chest pain. If the pain continues after 5 minutes, a third spray may be used. You must wait 5 minutes after the first 1 or 2 sprays before using a third spray. If you still have chest pain after a total of 3 sprays, contact your doctor or go to a hospital emergency room right away. Do not use more than 3 sprays in a 15-minute period.
- Extended-release capsules: Swallow the capsule whole. Do not split, crush, or chew it. Always follow the instructions in the patient information insert and consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions.
What is the dosage form of Nitroglycerin?
Nitroglycerin is available in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, extended-release capsules, oral spray, sublingual powder, and sublingual tablets.
How is Nitroglycerin administered?
Nitroglycerin is administered sublingually by emptying the contents of a packet under the tongue, allowing it to dissolve without swallowing, and not rinsing or spitting for 5 minutes after taking the medicine. The sublingual tablets should be placed under the tongue or between the cheek and gum to dissolve, without eating, drinking, smoking, or using chewing tobacco while the tablet is dissolving. One or two sprays of the oral spray can be administered at the onset of chest pain, with a 5-minute wait before using a third spray. Do not use more than 3 sprays in a 15-minute period.
What are common precautions when taking Nitroglycerin?
When taking nitroglycerin sublingually, there are some common precautions to keep in mind:
- Follow the dosage instructions carefully: Do not take more than 3 packets or tablets in 15 minutes, and do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Do not swallow or rinse after taking the powder: Allow the powder to dissolve under your tongue without swallowing for 5 minutes.
- Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or using chewing tobacco: These activities can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
- Be cautious with crushing or splitting tablets: Extended-release capsules should not be split, crushed, or chewed, as this may alter the intended effect.
- Monitor side effects: Watch for common side effects such as headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, flushing, stomach upset, heartburn, and diarrhea. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare professional. Remember to read and follow the instructions in the patient information insert provided with the medication, and always contact your doctor or healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.