Requires Prescription (YES/NO): Yes
Generics: Glyceryl Trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)
Used For: Relief of chest pain (angina pectoris)
Class: Nitrate / Anti-anginal Agent
Glyceryl Trinitrate works by releasing nitric oxide, which relaxes vascular smooth muscles and causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). This reduces the heart’s oxygen demand and improves blood flow to the heart muscles, providing quick relief from angina (chest pain).
Dosage:
Usual dose: Place 1 tablet under the tongue at onset of chest pain
May repeat every 5 minutes (max 3 doses in 15 minutes)
Do not chew or swallow the tablet
Side Effects:
Common: Headache, dizziness, flushing, low blood pressure
Rare: Fainting, fast heartbeat, allergic reaction
Very rare: Severe hypotension or collapse
Angised 0.5mg is used for:
Immediate relief of angina pectoris (chest pain)
Prevention of angina before physical exertion
Can also be used under medical advice in acute heart failure or hypertensive emergencies
Do not use if:
Hypersensitive to nitrates
Taking phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g. sildenafil/Viagra) – risk of severe hypotension
Severe anemia or increased intracranial pressure
Hypotension or shock
Sit or lie down before taking to avoid fainting
Caution in elderly or those with low blood pressure
Not for continuous use—risk of nitrate tolerance
Avoid alcohol as it enhances blood pressure-lowering effects
Warning 1: Do not take with erectile dysfunction medications—can cause life-threatening drop in blood pressure
Warning 2: May cause rebound angina if stopped abruptly after prolonged use
Warning 3: Tolerance can develop—use only when needed or as advised
Category C – Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor
Store in a cool, dry place
Keep in the original tightly closed bottle (sensitive to light & moisture)
Do not transfer tablets to other containers
Keep out of reach of children