Nitrates are a class of drugs that includes nitroglycerin. It functions by widening the blood vessels, boosting the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, and reducing the workload on the organ. This aids in preventing angina attacks when used frequently over an extended period of time, right before activity or a stressful situation.

You can buy it in the below-given forms:

• Capsule, Extended Release
• Packet
• Tablet 
• Spray

Uses:

Nitroglycerin is typically used by doctors to relieve angina discomfort.

Angina is brought on by the constriction of the blood-supplying arteries to the heart. This disorder is known medically as coronary artery disease (CAD).

It has the sensation of being squeezed or pressed. Your lower jaw, chest, neck, and arms (typically the left) can all experience it.

How does it work?

The medication nitroglycerin is a member of the vasodilator pharmacological class. A class of pharmaceuticals is a collection of compounds with comparable mechanisms of action. Similar problems are frequently treated with these medications.

Nitric oxide is formed through the body's breakdown of nitroglycerin. The smooth muscle of the blood vessels relaxes as a result of nitric oxide. More blood can flow through the arteries as a result of the arteries being able to expand. This process is known as vasodilation by medical practitioners.

Chest pain that is severe will be experienced during an angina attack. Within 1-3 minutes, nitroglycerin will begin to act; however, its full impact won't be felt for another 5 minutes.

How do I take it?

Take this drug by mouth as prescribed by your doctor, typically 2 times a day. It's crucial to take the medication at the same time every day. Except when your doctor instructs you to, don't alter the dosing times. Your medical condition and treatment response will determine the dosage.

Completely ingest this drug. Never chew or crush the capsules. This could cause the medicine to release completely all at once and raise your chance of negative effects. Sublingual or spray has to be given under the tongue as an emergency drug.

Precautions: 

Doctors advise against using nitroglycerin if a patient has a history of allergic responses to the drug since some people may be allergic to it.

You can feel lightheaded if you take this medication. You may feel more lightheaded after consuming alcohol or cannabis. Till you can do it safely, avoid operating machinery, driving, or doing anything else that requires alertness. Limit alcoholic beverages. Consult your physician if you use marijuana (cannabis).

Interactions:

The sublingual tablet form of nitroglycerin may interact with any drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements you're taking. When a substance modifies how a drug functions, there is an interaction. This could be hazardous or stop the medication from working properly.

Your doctor needs to closely monitor all of your prescriptions to help you prevent interactions. Tell your doctor about all of the drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies you are using. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist to learn how this medication may interact with other medications you are taking.

Summary:

• Heart attack, stroke, and even death are significant angina consequences that can be postponed with the proper use of nitroglycerin.
• Nitroglycerin may have negative effects, so users should sit still while the medication works.
• Medications for erectile dysfunction may interact with nitroglycerin. People who suffer from angina should tell their doctor if they take Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra because doing so could be harmful.