Life saving drugs I - Glyceryl trinitrate

Life saving drugs

Life saving drugs are medicines which have the potential to save your life when taken.

What is Glyceryl trinitrate?

Glyceryl trinitrate belongs to the chemical class of nitrate vasodilators and is used in the treatment of angina.

When do patients take Glyceryl trinitrate?

Glyceryl trinitrate is prescribed to a patient for the treatment of;

Symptoms of Angina Pectoris 

• Severe chest pain or angina (along with sweating, depression, nausea, shortness of breath and dizziness)
• Spasms in the coronary artery

How does it act in the body?

Glyceryl trinitrate acts by dilating and relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces the strain on the heart and facilitates for the flow of the blood; ultimately providing relief from the chest pain. 

How much and in what form?

• Sublingual tablets: These tablets are to kept under the tongue and allowed to swallow. The dose is 300 mcg -600 mcg which can be taken thrice in a span of 15 minutes till the pain goes away. In case the pain persists, call the doctor. 
• Spray: Spray one or two spray below the tongue and repeat twice within 15 minutes till pain subsides. In case the pain persists, call the doctor. 
• Buccal tablets: Place one tablet between the gum and top lip on one side, repeat with the tablet on other side. Do not move the tablet around your mouth.
• Patches: Apply one patch on your chest or arm every 24 hours.
• Ointment: Apply 1-2 inches of ointment on arm, chest or thigh every 3-4 hours.

Are there side effects?

The side effects that are given here serious and immediate medical attention should be sought after;

• Worsening of symptoms of angina (chest pain, weakness, difficulty in breathing, blue coloration of lips, fingers and toes, rapid or slow heart beat, incoherent speech and unconsciousness) 

The other side effects which are very common in occurrence are;

• Headache
• Giddiness
• Low blood pressure
• Weakness

The other not so common side effects are;

• Fainting
• Flushing
• Burning sensation
• Feeling sick

When can a person not take Glyceryl trinitrate?

Any patient should not take Glyceryl trinitrate if;

• If you are allergic to any of the nitrates.
• If you have anemia
• If you high blood pressure
• If you have glaucoma
• If you are taking Sildenafil (Viagra) or similar medications. 
• If you are breast feeding or pregnant. 

How to keep Glyceryl Trinitrate?

• Glyceryl trinitrate should be kept out of reach of children and pets. 
• The tablets should be kept in air tight bottles.
• Use the tablets within 8 weeks of opening the bottle and if it is still remaining get a fresh supply.
• Store the tablet at room temperature protected from light.

Remember this information is intended for patient information only and one should use them only after the prescription of the doctor and guidance of the pharmacist.