Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are employed in the management of angina episodes (chest pain) in individuals diagnosed with coronary artery disease. Additionally, it’s utilized prior to activities that might trigger angina to prevent its occurrence. Classified as a vasodilator, nitroglycerin operates by dilating blood vessels, reducing the heart’s workload, and consequently decreasing the demand for oxygen.
Uses and Dosage
Nitroglycerin is typically administered as a sublingual tablet to be placed under the tongue. It’s taken as needed, either 5 to 10 minutes before activities that may trigger angina or at the onset of an angina attack.
Adhere to the prescribed dosage of nitroglycerin precisely; avoid taking more or less frequently than directed by your doctor.
Over time or after multiple doses, nitroglycerin may lose effectiveness. Take the minimum number of tablets necessary to alleviate your angina symptoms. If your angina attacks become more frequent, prolonged, or severe during treatment, contact your doctor promptly.
Discuss with your doctor the appropriate usage of nitroglycerin tablets for managing angina attacks. Typically, your doctor will advise you to sit down and take one dose of nitroglycerin at the onset of an attack. If your symptoms don’t improve significantly or worsen after taking the initial dose, you may be instructed to seek emergency medical assistance immediately. If your symptoms persist even after the first dose, your doctor may recommend a second dose after 5 minutes, followed by a third dose another 5 minutes later. Contact emergency medical services immediately if your chest pain persists 5 minutes after the third dose.
Avoid chewing, crushing, or swallowing nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Instead, place the tablet under your tongue or between your cheek and gum, allowing it to dissolve.
You may experience a burning or tingling sensation in your mouth as the tablet dissolves, which is normal but not indicative of the tablet’s efficacy. Don’t worry if you don’t feel the burning or tingling sensation; it doesn’t imply that the tablet isn’t working.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- flushing
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blurred vision
- dry mouth
- rash, blistering, or peeling of the skin
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- nausea
- vomiting
- weakness
- sweating
- pale skin
Caution
- Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, particularly to nitroglycerin, similar drugs like isosorbide mononitrate, or nitrites. Inactive ingredients in the product could also trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Disclose your medical history, especially if you have recently experienced head injury, anemia, low blood pressure, dehydration, or other heart issues such as a recent heart attack, to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.
- This drug may cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in tasks requiring alertness until you can do so safely.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly dizziness and lightheadedness, which could heighten the risk of falls.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Nitrostat Sublingual is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Nitrostat Sublingual sublingual tablet:
- 0.3 mg
- 0.6 mg
- nitroglycerin sublingual tablet:
- 0.3 mg
- 0.6 mg
FAQ
Should you lie down before taking Nitrostat Sublingual?
You should always sit or lie down to take your Nitrostat Sublingual. Taking Nitrostat Sublingual can lower your blood
pressure, which could cause you to pass out if you are standing up.
How long does it take Nitrostat Sublingual to work?
Nitrostat Sublingual tablets usually give relief in 1 to 5 minutes.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/nitroglycerin-oral-route-sublingual-route/description/drg-20072863
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/nitroglycerin-sublingual
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6929/nitrostat-sublingual/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601086.html#:~:text=Nitroglycerin%20sublingual%20tablets%20are%20used,prevent%20the%20angina%20from%20occurring
- https://www.drugs.com/nitrostat.html#dosage
