Description

What’s Glyceryl Trinitrate?

Glyceryl trinitrate is also called GTN or nitroglycerin. It is available in several forms such as tablets, sprays, skin patches, and rectal ointment. Doctors select the form of treatment according to the condition being treated.

GTN can also provide quick relief when prescribed for an angina attack. Doctors might also suggest some GTN products prior to physical activity that is likely to bring on symptoms of angina.

What Is Glyceryl Trinitrate Used For?

Glyceryl trinitrate is mainly used to treat and prevent angina. Angina is a condition where the heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood with oxygen in it. GTN works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which reduces the work the heart has to do and helps to relieve chest discomfort.

GTN rectal ointment can also be prescribed by healthcare professionals for anal fissures. So, the right way to formulate it is to be based on the condition and to follow professional medical advice.

**How does glyceryl trinitrate work?**

GTN is a vasodilator. Basically, it opens up the blood vessels. This means blood can flow more easily and the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood around the body. This action can take the pressure and discomfort out of angina.

But patients should only take GTN as directed by their doctor or chemist. Different forms of medicine (tablet, spray, patch, ointment) have different instructions that may be suitable.

Side Effects Common

Side effects, as with other medicines, can occur with Glyceryl trinitrate. Typical effects include:

• Headache.
• Lightheadedness
• Tiredness or weakness
• Nausea
• Facial blushing

These effects often lessen as the body gets used to the medicine. Severe or persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Important Safety Information

GTN can reduce blood pressure. This can make some people feel dizzy, weak or faint after using it. If this happens, sit or lie down and do not drive or operate machinery until you feel better.

Most importantly, GTN should not be used with medicines for erectile dysfunction such as sildenafil, tadalafil or vardenafil as this can cause a dangerous fall in blood pressure.

Before you start treatment, tell your doctor or chemist about all the medicines, vitamins and supplements you take.

When to get emergency help

Sometimes chest pain can be a sign of a heart attack, not just ordinary angina. Get emergency medical help if your chest pain is severe, worsening, different from your usual chest pain, or if it is not improving with your prescribed emergency plan.

FAQs

Is Glyceryl trinitrate the same as GTN?

Yes. GTN is an abbreviation for glyceryl trinitrate.

What does Glyceryl trinitrate treat?

Used mainly for prevention and relief of angina pectoris. Some formulations are also used for treatment of anal fissures.

Can Glyceryl trinitrate cause headaches?

Yes. One of the common side effects of GTN is headache.

Is Glyceryl trinitrate suitable for all?

No. GTN may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medicines. Your doctor or chemist should review your health history and current medications before treatment.

Overall

Glyceryl trinitrate is an important nitrate medicine. Used properly, it can help to relieve and prevent angina. Different formulations also have different purposes. GTN can interact with other medicines and affect blood pressure, so patients should follow the advice of their medical professional carefully. Do not use GTN alone. Seek emergency medical help if you have severe or unusual chest pain.