Nitroglycerin

--Storage instructions...

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed. Store it at room temperature. Do not refrigerate.

Avoid puncturing the spray container and keep it away from excess heat.

Do not open the container of sublingual tablets until you need a dose. Close the container tightly immediately after each use. Do not put other medications, a cotton plug, or anything else in the container. Keep the sublingual tablets handy at all times. Keep the patches in the protective pouches they come in until use.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking nitroglycerin.

• More common side effects may include:
  Dizziness, flushed skin (neck and face), headache, light-headedness, worsened angina pain

Why should Nitroglycerin not be prescribed?

You should not be using nitroglycerin if you are allergic to it or to the adhesive in the patch, if you have a head injury, or if you have any condition caused by increased fluid pressure in your head. Nitroglycerin should not be taken if you have severe anemia or if you recently had a heart attack. The capsule form should not be used if you have closed-angle glaucoma (pressure in the eye) or suffer from postural hypotension (dizziness upon standing up). Do not take the tablets if you are using the impotence drug Viagra.

Special warnings about Nitroglycerin

If your vision becomes blurry or your mouth becomes dry while taking nitroglycerin, it should be discontinued. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms develop.

You may develop acute headaches if you take nitroglycerin excessively. Also, some people may develop a tolerance to nitroglycerin, and it may become less beneficial over time, especially if used in excess.

Nitroglycerin tablets lose their effectiveness when exposed to air. If you are taking sublingual nitroglycerin, you may notice a burning or tingling sensation. This does not necessarily mean that tablets which have been exposed to air for a long period of time are still good.