Nitrofix SR 2.6

Generic

Nitroglycerin

Indications

Nitroglycerin is suitable for the prevention of angina pectoris. This form of onset is not fast enough to stop an attack of acute angina pectoris.

Pharmacology

Nitroglycerin causes vascular smooth muscle relaxation and produces vasodilator effects in peripheral arteries and veins. Venous expansion promotes the accumulation of peripheral blood, reduces venous return to the heart, reduces left ventricular end diastolic pressure (preload), and arterial relaxation reduces systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure (afterload).

Dosage & Administration

Dosage should always to be adjusted according to the requirement and response obtained by the individual patient and the severity of the anginal pain. For adults, one Nitroglycerin 2.6 mg sustained release tablet or capsule in the morning and evening. This should be taken empty stomach.

Interaction

Nitroglycerin dilates peripheral blood vessels and can increase the antihypertensive properties of vasodilators, calcium antagonists, and β-adrenergic blockers. Concomitant use of nitrates with tricyclic antidepressants and alcohol can cause high blood pressure. Nitrate drugs combined with phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors (such as sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil) can cause a decrease in blood pressure. Aspirin reduces the clearance rate and increases the hemodynamic effects of nitroglycerin. Combined use of nitroglycerin can reduce the pharmacological effects of heparin. Nitrate can increase the bioavailability of dihydroergotamine.

Contraindications

Patients known to be allergic to nitroglycerin, other organic nitrates or nitrites or pharmaceutical excipients should not use nitroglycerin. Patients with acute myocardial infarction, overt anemia, head trauma, cerebral hemorrhage, or closed-angle glaucoma are also contraindicated.

Side Effects

The headache may occur at the beginning of treatment, but it usually disappears after a few days. If the headache persists, the dose should be reduced. Other side effects include tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension and syncope, cyanosis, and methemoglobinemia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Nitroglycerin should not be used during pregnancy or lactation unless considered essential by the physician.

Precautions & Warnings

Patients who are susceptible to angle-closure glaucoma should use nitroglycerin with caution. As with other medications for angina pectoris, stopping treatment suddenly may cause symptoms to worsen. When long-term treatment is interrupted, the dose should be gradually reduced within a few days, and the patient should be carefully monitored. The use of nitroglycerin in the first few days of acute myocardial infarction requires special attention to hemodynamic monitoring and clinical status to avoid the risk of hypotension and tachycardia.

Therapeutic Class

Nitrates: Coronary vasodilators

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool and dry place away from light and heat. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Pharmaceutical Name

Opsonin Pharma Ltd.