Nitroglycerin Ointment Description

Generic Name : NITROGLYCERIN OINTMENT

Pronunciation : (nye troe gli' ser in)

Trade Name(s) : Myovin

Why it is prescribed: Nitroglycerin ointment is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. It affects the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart and is used to prevent chest pain. Nitroglycerin ointment is not used to relieve chest pain during an attack because it takes 30 minutes to take effect.

When it is to be taken: Nitroglycerin ointment usually is applied three or four times a day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand.

How it should be taken: Nitroglycerin ointment comes with papers with a ruled line for measuring the dose (in inches). Squeeze the ointment onto the paper, carefully measuring the amount specified on your prescription label. Use the paper to spread the ointment in a thin layer on a relatively hair-free area of skin such as your chest. Do not rub in the ointment. Leave the paper on top of the ointment and tape it in place or, to protect your clothing, cover the paper with plastic wrap and hold the plastic in place with an elastic bandage or tape.Wash your hands after applying the ointment; try not to get the ointment on your fingers.

Special Instruction :
1. Contact your doctor if you continue to have angina attacks.
2. Do not stop using nitroglycerin without consulting your doctor. Stopping the drug abruptly may cause chest pain.
3. Your doctor probably will want to decrease your dose gradually.
4. Keep all appointments with your doctor and report any chest pain.
5. Nitroglycerin can lose its effectiveness over time. Contact your doctor if the frequency, severity, or duration of your angina worsens.
6. Follow your doctor's instructions to stop smoking, lose weight, rest, and avoid situations that cause angina e.g., heavy meals, emotional upsets, strenuous exercise, and cold weather.
7. If you forget to apply a dose, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if you remember a missed dose near the time you are scheduled to apply the next dose, apply only the scheduled dose. Do not apply a double dose.

Side Effects :
1. Headache. If it persists, ask your doctor if you may take aspirin or acetaminophen.
2. Your nitroglycerin dose may need to be adjusted. Do not take any medication for headache or change your dose without consulting your doctor.
3. Skin irritation. Apply the ointment to a different skin area. If irritation persists, contact your doctor.
4. Dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, and faintness, especially while standing still or when in a warm place. Lie or sit down. Contact your doctor if these effects persist or if you faint.
5. Stomach upset. Contact your doctor if this problem is severe or persists. 6. Blurred vision, dry mouth, skin rash. Contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. Before your use nitroglycerin, tell your doctor if you ever had a bad reaction to amyl nitrite, isosorbide dinitrate, or pentaerythritol tetranitrate.
2. Before you use nitroglycerin, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially high blood pressure medication, beta blockers, and tranquilizers.
3. Ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic beverages; alcohol can make side effects from nitroglycerin ointment worse.
4. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication out of the reach of children and away from other ointments and creams.
2. Close the ointment tube tightly after each use.
3. Store it at room temperature.