Nitrostat

(Nitroglycerin)

The active ingredient in Nitrostat is nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin belongs to a group of medicines called organic nitrates. It works by causing smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation (widens blood vessels), which improves oxygen supply and relieves symptoms of angina.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Nitrostat. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Nitrostat:

• Nitrostat is taken at the first sign of chest pain or an angina attack. Place one sublingual tablet under the tongue or in the buccal area and allow it to dissolve completely. If chest pain persists after 5 minutes, a second tablet may be used as directed. A third tablet may be used if pain continues, following medical advice.
• Nitrostat tablets are available as 0.3 mg and 0.6 mg. Your healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dose based on your condition and response.
• Do not chew, crush, or swallow the tablet.
• Sit or lie down before taking Nitrostat to reduce the risk of fainting due to low blood pressure.
• Seek medical attention immediately if chest pain does not improve after the maximum recommended number of tablets.
• Nitrostat may also be used before physical activity or stress for the prophylaxis of angina when advised by a healthcare professional.

Some mild or common side effects of Nitrostat include:

• Headache.
• Lightheadedness.
• Dizziness.
• Flushing.
• Blurred vision.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Nitrostat. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe drop in blood pressure or hypotension.
• Fainting or syncope.
• Irregular heartbeat or changes in heart rate.
• Severe chest pain that does not improve.
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include bluish skin or lips and shortness of breath.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Nitrostat. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Nitrostat, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Low blood pressure or a history of hypotension.
• Heart failure or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
• Recent heart attack.
• Severe anemia.
• History of methemoglobinemia.
• Dehydration.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Migraine headaches.

• Allergic to nitroglycerin or other organic nitrates.
• Have severe anemia.
• Taking phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors used for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil (Viagra), Cialis (tadalafil), or Levitra (vardenafil).
• Using riociguat.
• Have acute circulatory failure or shock.

Nitrostat works quickly. Relief of angina symptoms usually begins within 1 to 3 minutes after placing the tablet under the tongue. If chest pain does not improve promptly, medical attention is required.

When Nitrostat is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil can cause severe low blood pressure when combined with nitrates.
• Riociguat, which may lead to dangerous hypotension.
• Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine may reduce the effectiveness of nitroglycerin or increase side effects.
• Other vasodilators or blood pressure medications may increase the risk of hypotension.

Nitrostat is available as sublingual tablets containing 0.3 and 0.6 mg of nitroglycerin.

Nitrostat should be stored at room temperature, in its original glass container, tightly closed, and away from the reach of children or pets.

Nitrostat is manufactured by Pfizer.

Nitrostat is a brand-name medication. Generic nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are available.

Nitrostat is used as needed for angina attacks or prophylaxis. Do not stop or change how you use Nitrostat without speaking to your healthcare provider. If your angina symptoms change or worsen, seek medical advice promptly.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will determine if Nitrostat is appropriate based on potential benefits and risks.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. A healthcare professional can advise whether Nitrostat is suitable during breastfeeding.