Nitroglycerin Tablets (Generic Name)
Other Names: Nitrostat®

Dosage form

Oral tablets: 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.6 mg

About this drug

Nitroglycerin (nye-tro-GLISS-er-in) is used to treat chest pain (angina). It is a vasodilator (VAY-zo-dye-LAY-ter).

Side effects

Common side effects are:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Flushing of the face and neck
  • Increased heart rate
  • Restlessness 

Rare side effects include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue

If any of these side effects becomes severe or bothers you, call your doctor. Do not take over-the-counter or other pain medicine for your symptoms.

Drug interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription medicine, over-the-counter medicine, or herbal products that you are taking. He or she will check for interactions.  

How to take this medicine

At the first sign of chest pain, take this medicine. Place the tablet under your tongue (sublingual) to dissolve. You should feel the effect right away. If you have no relief after taking the first dose, repeat the dose every 5 minutes. Do not take more than 3 tablets in 15 minutes. If you still have pain after 3 tablets, call 911, or have someone drive you to the nearest hospital emergency room right away. 
 

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