Medications and Drugs

Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease) Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: NITROGLYCERIN LINGUAL SPRAY (nye-troh-GLISS-er-in)

BRAND NAME(S): Nitrolingual

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Nitroglycerin relaxes blood vessels allowing more blood to flow through. This reduces the workload on the heart and improves blood flow to the heart. Lingual nitroglycerin acts quickly to relieve chest pain (angina).

HOW TO USE: At the first sign of chest pain, sit down and spray one or two metered doses on or under the tongue. Close mouth immediately after each dose. The drug is absorbed directly through the lining of the mouth. Spray should not be inhaled and swallowing should be avoided. Do not eat, drink or smoke while spray is in your mouth. Effects should begin within 1 to 3 minutes. If after 5 minutes, there is no relief of chest pain, use another metered dose. If there is no relief after 3 applications, call your doctor immediately or go to a hospital emergency room. Nitroglycerin spray may be used 5 to 10 minutes before engaging in activities that may cause an attack. Do not shake container. Carry this medication with you at all times.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, flushing, rapid heartbeat or restlessness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To prevent dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Notify your doctor if you experience: blurred vision, dry mouth, skin rash, nausea. Headache is often a sign the medication is working. Treat headaches with an aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever as recommended by your doctor. If the headaches continue or become severe, notify your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.