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Drug

Nitroglycerin

Pronounced

"nye-troh-GLISS-er-in"

Uses

This medication is used to prevent chest pain (angina) in people with a certain heart condition (coronary artery disease). Nitroglycerin belongs to a class of drugs known as nitrates. Angina occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough blood. This drug works by relaxing and widening blood vessels so blood can flow more easily to the heart.

This medication will not relieve chest pain once it occurs. It is also not intended to be used just before physical activities (such as exercise, sexual activity) to prevent chest pain. Other medications may be needed in these situations. Consult your doctor for more details.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Remove the patch from its pouch, and peel off the protective clear liner as directed. Usually, you will wear the patch on the upper arm or chest. However, you can wear it anywhere on the body below the neck and above the knees or elbows. Apply the patch to a clean, dry, and hairless area. Hair in the area may be clipped, but not shaved. Avoid areas with cuts or irritation. Do not apply the patch immediately after bathing or showering. Wait until your skin is completely dry. However, you may bathe, shower, and swim while wearing the patch. Press the patch firmly in place with the palm of your hand. Wash your hands after applying the patch.

Use this patch as directed by your doctor, usually 1 patch a day, wearing it for 12 to 14 hours. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

To reduce skin irritation, apply each new patch to a different area of skin. After removing the old patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together, and discard out of reach of children and pets.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.

Do not suddenly stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Although unlikely, when this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well and may require different dosing. Tell your doctor if this medication stops working well (for example, you have worsening chest pain or it occurs more often).

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.