Class
Description
Onset and Duration
Indications
Contraindications
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
How Supplied
Dosage and Administration
Special Considerations
Vasodilator
lt was originally believed that nitrates and nitrites dilated coronary blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow to the heart. It is now believed that atherosclerosis limits coronary dilation and that the benefits of nitrates and nitrites result from dilation of arterioles and veins in the periphery. The resulting reduction in preload and to a lesser extent in afterload decreases the work load of the heart and lowers myocardial oxygen demand. Nitroglycerin is very lipid soluble and is thought to enter the body from the Gl tract through the lymphatics rather than the portal blood.
Ischemic chest pain
Hypertension
Congestive heart failure
Hypersensitivity
Hypotension
Head injury
Cerebral hemorrhage
Transient headache
Postural syncope
Reflex tachycardia
Hypotension
Nausea and vomiting
Allergic reaction
Muscle twitching
Diaphoresis
Other vasodilators may have additive hypotensive effects.
Pregnancy safety: Category C.
Susceptibility to hypotension in older adults increases.
Nitroglycerin decomposes when exposed to light or heat.
Must be kept in airtight containers.
Active ingredient of nitroglycerin "stings" when administered SL.