Glyceryl Trinitrate / Nitroglycerine

Dosage Forms Available

• Glyceryl Trinitrate is available in various forms, including sublingual tablets, transdermal patches, ointments, sprays, and intravenous injections. 

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medication is generally not recommended for children under 18 years.

Contraindications

• This medication should not be used in patients with severe anemia, increased intracranial pressure (e.g., head trauma), hypotension (low blood pressure), or allergy to nitrates. It is also contraindicated in patients taking phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors like sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil due to the risk of severe hypotension.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Certain medications can interact with Glyceryl Trinitrate, increasing the risk of side effects. Avoid combining it with PDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil), antihypertensive medicines (amlodipine), alcohol, tricyclic antidepressants, or diuretics unless prescribed by a doctor. These combinations can lead to excessive blood pressure reduction and fainting.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Glyceryl Trinitrate can cause severe headaches, extreme dizziness, fainting, and dangerously low blood pressure. If an overdose occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

• If you experience headache or dizziness, rest in a lying down position and avoid sudden movements. Drinking plenty of fluids may help relieve symptoms. If headaches persist, a mild pain reliever like paracetamol may be taken. For flushing or nausea, taking the medication with sufficient water or food may help reduce discomfort. If side effects worsen, consult your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Glyceryl Trinitrate can cause dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up too quickly. It is recommended to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how this medication affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary and prescribed by a doctor, as safety data is limited. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using Glyceryl Trinitrate, as it is uncertain whether the medication passes into breast milk.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with low blood pressure, severe dehydration, recent heart attack, glaucoma, kidney or liver impairment should take this medication with caution. People with frequent migraine headaches may experience increased headaches when using this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Stay well-hydrated to prevent excessive drops in blood pressure.
• Avoid alcohol, as it can increase dizziness and enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect.
• Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid sudden dizziness.
• Limit caffeine intake, as excessive caffeine can interfere with the effectiveness of nitrates.
• Monitor blood pressure regularly to ensure that the medication is working effectively and to avoid hypotension.