Why is this medication prescribed?
Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator (a medication that dilates blood vessels) and is frequently is used in the management of angina pectoris.
Blood returning from the body in the veins must be pumped by the heart through the lungs and into the arteries against the high pressure in the arteries. In order to accomplish this work, the heart's muscle must produce and use energy ("fuel"). The production of energy requires oxygen. Angina pectoris (angina) or "heart pain" is due to an inadequate flow of blood (and oxygen) to the muscle of the heart. It is believed that all nitrates, including nitroglycerin, correct the imbalance between the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart and the work that the heart must do by dilating the arteries and veins in the body. Dilation of the veins reduces the amount of blood that returns to the heart that must be pumped . Dilation of the arteries lowers the pressure in the arteries against which the heart must pump. As a consequence, the heart works less and requires less blood and oxygen.
Additionally, in patients with angina, nitroglycerin preferentially dilates blood vessels that supply the areas of the heart where there is not enough oxygen, thereby delivering oxygen to the heart tissue that needs it most.
Dosage and using this medicine
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?