Fast-Acting Nitroglycerin
Nitroglycerin relieves angina (chest pain) by getting more blood and oxygen to your heart. Fast-acting nitroglycerin stops an angina attack. Follow the steps below for taking fast-acting nitroglycerin.
To Stop an Angina Attack
If you use tablets:
Sit down.
Place one tablet under your tongue. Or place it between your lip and gum or between your cheek and gum.
Let the tablet dissolve all the way. Do not swallow or chew the tablet.
Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew tobacco as the tablet is dissolving.
If you use spray:
Sit down. Open your mouth and hold the sprayer just in front of your mouth.
Press the button on the top. Spray once under your tongue or inside your cheek. Do not inhale.
Close your mouth. Then wait a few seconds before you swallow.
After taking one tablet or spraying once:
Sit for 5 minutes.
If the angina goes away, rest for a while and continue your normal routine.
Call 911 or have someone drive you to an emergency room if your angina lasts longer than 5 minutes and 1 tablet or 1 spray has not relieved it. Do not delay—you may be having a heart attack!
Precautions
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Too much alcohol can cause dizziness or fainting.
Tell your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbs you use. Nitroglycerin can interact with other medications and cause serious problems. NOTE: Do not take Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis at any time if you are on nitroglycerin.
Check the expiration date. Nitroglycerin can lose its effectiveness over time.