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Nitroglycerin Tablets
Nitroglycerin tablets are prescribed to relieve attacks of chest pain (angina) and to prevent these attacks when taken before certain activities. This product is dissolved under the tongue or between the cheek and gum. You can use up to 3 tablets within 15 minutes of the start of chest pain, provided you wait 5 minutes between each tablet. Possible side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and headaches.
The nitroglycerin tablet (Nitrostat®) is a prescription medication used to treat sudden episodes of chest pain (angina). It can also be used just before physical activity, such as exercise or sexual intercourse, to help prevent anticipated chest pain.
(Click What Are Nitroglycerin Tablets Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, nitroglycerin tablets may cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of nitroglycerin tablets include but are not limited to:
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Dizziness.
(Click Nitroglycerin Tablet Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD