Glyceryl trinitrate

About glyceryl trinitrate

Glyceryl trinitrate is used to treat and prevent chest pain which is a symptom of angina and other heart conditions including heart failure (a condition where the pumping action of the heart is reduced).

Angina is pain or tightness of the chest caused by a lack of oxygen reaching the heart muscle. Nitrates like glyceryl trinitrate, work in two different ways. They widen the arteries that carry blood to the heart muscle and they relax the veins that return blood from the body to the heart. Together these actions allow more oxygen to reach the heart muscle and reduce the work of the heart. This lowers the overall strain on the heart reducing the risk of angina and relieving the pain associated with an acute angina attack. Glyceryl trinitrate can be used to treat an angina attack or can be taken before exercise or exertion to help prevent an attack.

Before taking glyceryl trinitrate

Before taking glyceryl trinitrate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from a heart condition, liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure).
• If you have recently suffered a head injury or brain haemorrhage.
• If you have recently suffered a heart attack.
• If you suffer from anaemia (low levels of iron in the blood) or hypoxaemia (low levels of oxygen in the blood).
• If you suffer from thyroid problems.
• If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
• If you are taking any products to help treat erectile dysfunction (such as Viagra®).
• If you suffer from hypothermia (low body temperature).
• If you suffer from poor nutrition.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take glyceryl trinitrate

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Your doctor will tell you when and how often you should take your medicine.
• Sublingual tablets: place one tablet under your tongue when needed and allow it to dissolve.
• Aerosol spray: spray one or two sprays under your tongue when needed. Close your mouth immediately after each spray.
• Buccal tablet: place the tablet between your top lip and your upper gum just to the left or right of your front teeth and allow it to dissolve. It may take a few hours to completely disappear. Do not move the tablet around your mouth. Next time you need a tablet, place it to the other side of your front teeth.
• Patches and Ointment: use these preparations exactly as directed by your doctor. The instructions on which part of the body you should place your patches or apply the ointment may vary, so if you are in any doubt check the manufacturer's information leaflet you will have received with the preparation. The patches and ointment should be used on a different area of the skin each time.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If your angina symptoms are not helped after using your glyceryl trinitrate product speak to your doctor straight away.
• It is best not to drink alcohol while you are taking glyceryl trinitrate. Alcohol can make any dizziness you feel worse. If you do drink alcohol, drink only a little and be aware of its effect on you.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can glyceryl trinitrate cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store glyceryl trinitrate

• Store glyceryl trinitrate sublingual tablets in their original container. They can be used for up to 8 weeks after the container is opened.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines