Nitroglycerin eases chest pain (angina) by getting more blood and oxygen to your heart. It also works by reducing the heart's need for oxygen by widening (dilating) the arteries. Long-acting nitroglycerin helps prevent angina from starting.
Long-acting nitroglycerin comes in several forms. It can be a patch, a tablet or capsule, or an ointment you put on your skin.
How to use long-acting nitroglycerin
If you use a patch:
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Apply a new patch to a clean, dry place on the chest or upper arm.
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Don't put the patch where skin is hairy, cut, irritated, scarred, or tattooed.
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Pick a new place each time you change the patch.
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Remove the old patch whenever you put on a new one.
If you use a tablet or capsule:
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Take the tablet or capsule 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.
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Swallow it with a glass of water. Don't break, chew, or crush the tablet or capsule.
If you use an ointment:
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Measure the prescribed amount of ointment onto the paper that comes with it.
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Spread a thin, even layer on a clean patch of skin. Don't rub it in. Tape the paper in place with skin tape for as long as instructed, then remove it.
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Use a new spot each time you apply the paste.
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Wipe off any old or remaining paste.
Precautions
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Don't suddenly stop using nitroglycerin to prevent angina. This could cause an angina attack. Check with your doctor first.
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Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Too much alcohol can cause dizziness or fainting.
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Tell your doctor about any medicines, supplements, or herbs you use. Nitroglycerin can interact with other medicines and cause serious problems.
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Don't take medicines for erection problems, such as sildenafil (Viagra), if you are taking nitroglycerin. Using these medicines at the same time is very dangerous. If you are thinking about treatment for erection problems, talk with your doctor.
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Check the expiration date. Nitroglycerin can become less effective over time. Be sure to store it away from both heat and light.
