Why do heart patients take nitroglycerin?
Why do heart patients take nitroglycerin?
It is used to treat angina symptoms, such as chest pain or pressure, that happens when there is not enough blood flowing to the heart. To improve blood flow to the heart, nitroglycerin opens up (dilates) the arteries in the heart (coronary arteries), which improves symptoms and reduces how hard the heart has to work.
How often should a heart patient take nitroglycerin?
Adults—2.5 to 6.5 milligrams (mg) 3 to 4 times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Should you go to the ER after taking nitroglycerin?
If you are not better within 5 minutes after taking ONE dose of nitroglycerin, call 9-1-1 immediately to seek emergency medical care. Do not take more than 3 nitroglycerin tablets over 15 minutes.
What happens if you take Viagra with nitroglycerin?
Using sildenafil together with nitroglycerin is not recommended. Combining these medications may cause blood pressure to fall excessively, which can lead to cardiovascular collapse.
How does nitroglycerin affect the heart rate?
More serious side effects include flushing of the head and neck can occur with nitroglycerin therapy as can an increase in heart rate or palpitations. This can be associated with a drop in blood pressure which can be accompanied by dizziness or weakness.
How does nitroglycerin affect the heart?
Doctors usually prescribe nitroglycerin for angina pectoris, which often is called just “angina.”. It’s sudden heart-related chest pain. It happens because something prevents the flow of blood to your heart muscle. Nitroglycerin helps widen the blood vessels so more blood gets to your heart muscle.
What happens if you take nitroglycerin?
Taking nitroglycerin when not needed can lead to severe headaches for one. It also could lead to an unsafe drop in blood pressure and can cause tachycardia which is a rapid heart rate, palpitations and fainting.
What does nitroglycerin do for heart problems?
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.
