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Indications

REMS

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: hypotension, tachycardia, syncope.

Derm: contact dermatitis (transdermal), flushing.

EENT: blurred vision.

GI: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting.

Neuro: dizziness, headache, apprehension, restlessness, weakness.
Misc: alcohol intoxication (large IV doses only), tolerance.

Interactions

Drug-Drug:

Availability

(Generic available)

Route/Dosage

US Brand Names

nitroglycerin extended-release capsules: Nitro-Time

nitroglycerin intravenous: Nitro-Bid IV

, Tridil

nitroglycerin sublingual tablets: Nitrostat

Nitroglycerin Transdermal Ointment: Nitro-Bid

nitroglycerin transdermal patch: Nitro-Dur

nitroglycerin translingual spray: Nitrolingual, Nitromist

Action

Therapeutic Effects:

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antianginals

Pharmacologic Classification: nitrates

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed after oral, buccal, and sublingual administration. Also absorbed through skin. Orally administered nitroglycerin is rapidly metabolized, leading to bioavailability.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Undergoes rapid and almost complete metabolism by the liver; also metabolized by enzymes in bloodstream.

Half-life: 1–4 min.

Canadian Brand Names

nitroglycerin intravenous: Nitroject

nitroglycerin transdermal patch: Trinipatch

nitroglycerin translingual spray: Rho-Nitro

Time/Action Profile

(cardiovascular effects)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
SL/Translingual1–3 minunknown30–60 min
PO-ER40–60 minunknown8–12 hr
Oint20–60 minunknown4–8 hr
Patch40–60 minunknown8–24 hr
IVimmediateunknownseveral min

Patient/Family Teaching

Pronunciation

nye-tro-GLI-ser-in