Uses
Nitroglycerin extended-release
capsules are used to prevent chest pain (angina) in people with a
certain heart condition (coronary artery disease). This medication 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 taken 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.
Side Effects
Headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea,
and flushing may occur as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of
these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Headache
is often a sign that this medication is working. Your doctor may recommend treating headaches with
an over-the-counter pain reliever (such as acetaminophen, aspirin).
If the headaches continue or become severe, tell your doctor promptly.
To
reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when
rising from a sitting or lying position.
Remember
that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged
that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people
using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell
your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects
occur: fainting, fast/irregular/pounding heartbeat.
A
very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek
immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of
the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This
is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before
using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are
allergic to it; or to similar drugs (such as isosorbide mononitrate); or to
nitrites; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain
inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before
using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history,
especially of: recent head injury, frequent stomach cramping/watery
stools/severe diarrhea (GI hypermotility), lack of proper absorption
of nutrients (malabsorption), anemia, low blood pressure,
loss of too much body water (dehydration), other heart problems (such
as recent heart attack).
This
drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you
more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness
until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your
doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before
having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products
you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal
products).
Older
adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication,
especially dizziness and lightheadedness, which could increase
the risk of falls.
During pregnancy,
this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor.
It
is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk or if it may
harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.