Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Nitroglycerin Injection

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • angina
  • blood pressure control
  • heart attack
  • heart disease
  • heart failure
  • high blood pressure

Generic Name: Nitroglycerin

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not operate machinery or drive while on this medicine.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not take this medicine with other medicines called PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Levitra, Cialis). Your doctor will let you know if it is safe for you to do so.

Ask your pharmacist if this medicine can interact with any of your other medicines. Be sure to tell them about all the medicines you take.

Do not start or stop any other medicines without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • dizziness
  • headaches
  • low blood pressure
  • lightheadedness
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • confusion
  • fainting
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • seizures
  • sweating
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • dark urine
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.