Glyceryl Trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)

Glyceryl trinitrate (commonly known as nitroglycerin) is a medication used to treat and prevent chest pain (angina) caused by heart disease. Glyceryl Trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) is used for Angina pectoris (prevention and treatment), Acute myocardial infarction (adjunct therapy) and Congestive heart failure (acute decompensated).

Also called: Rectogesic (United Kingdom) · Nitrolingual Pumpspray (Australia) · Nitroderm Tts (New Zealand)

Pronunciation: glih-SIR-ill trye-NYE-trate (nye-troh-GLIH-suh-rin).

Generic name
Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)
Brand names
Transiderm-Nitro, Nitrolingual, Nitrostat, Minitran, Angised, Rectogesic
Drug class
Nitrate vasodilator; Antianginal agent

Availability and supply rules vary by country

Trade names by country: United Kingdom · Australia · India · New Zealand

Australia: Transiderm-Nitro, Nitrolingual Pumpspray, Minitran · Full directory

What Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) is and how it works

Glyceryl trinitrate (commonly known as nitroglycerin) is a medication used to treat and prevent chest pain (angina) caused by heart disease. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which improves blood flow to the heart muscle and helps reduce its workload. This medicine is often used as a fast-acting treatment for sudden angina attacks and can also be prescribed in longer-acting forms to prevent future episodes. Glyceryl trinitrate is available in several forms, including sublingual tablets, sprays, patches, and ointments. Key points: Always follow your doctor’s instructions on how and when to use this medication. Do not use glyceryl trinitrate with certain medications for erectile dysfunction, as this combination can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure. (2)

Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.

Mechanism of action: how Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) works

Glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin) is converted to nitric oxide (NO) in vascular smooth muscle. NO activates guanylate cyclase, increasing cyclic GMP, which leads to smooth muscle relaxation. This causes vasodilation, primarily of veins (reducing preload) and, to a lesser extent, arteries (reducing afterload), thereby decreasing myocardial oxygen demand and relieving angina. (1)

What is Glyceryl trinitrate used for?

Angina pectoris (prevention and treatment)

Angina pectoris (prevention and treatment) (2)

Acute myocardial infarction (adjunct therapy)

Acute myocardial infarction (adjunct therapy) (2)

Congestive heart failure (acute decompensated)

Congestive heart failure (acute decompensated) (2)

Hypertensive emergencies (especially with myocardial ischemia)

The specific FDA-labeled indication for sublingual nitroglycerin tablets (e.g. Nitrostat) is relief and prevention of angina pectoris only; the acute MI, heart failure, and hypertensive-emergency uses apply to IV nitroglycerin formulations administered in a hospital setting, not the sublingual/spray/patch forms used by patients directly. (2)

Before taking Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)

Do not take / not appropriate for

  • Hypersensitivity to nitrates, severe anemia, increased intracranial pressure, hypotension, shock, concurrent use with phosphodiesterase inhibitors. (Contraindication) (2)

Tell your clinician about

(2)

Glyceryl trinitrate dosage and how to take it

  • General Instructions: Take glyceryl trinitrate exactly as prescribed. For sudden chest pain, place a sublingual tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve. Do not swallow or chew the tablet.. Adult Dosing: For acute angina: 0.3–0.6 mg sublingually every 5 minutes as needed, up to 3 doses in 15 minutes. For prevention: Use as directed, often before activities that may trigger angina. Dosing may vary for patches, ointments, or IV forms.. Pediatric Dosing: Not routinely recommended for children; use only under specialist supervision.. Administration: Sublingual tablets: Place under the tongue and allow to dissolve. Spray: Spray onto or under the tongue. Patches/ointment: Apply to clean, dry, hairless skin as directed. IV: Administered by healthcare professionals.. When To Stop: Do not stop using glyceryl trinitrate suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your condition.. Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep sublingual tablets in their original container and tightly closed.
  • This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
(2)

Procedures and treatment changes

Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)

Missed dose

If you miss a scheduled dose (for long-acting forms), take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up. For acute angina, use as needed.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, confusion, fever, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, fainting, or bluish skin. Seek emergency medical help immediately. (2)

Glyceryl trinitrate side effects

Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.

Headache

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Dizziness

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Lightheadedness

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Flushing

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Nausea

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Hypotension

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Syncope

Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established

Chest pain that does not improve after 3 doses within 15 minutes — seek emergency medical attention, as this may indicate a heart attack

(2)

Signs of severe hypotension: nausea, vomiting, weakness, pale skin, sweating, or fainting

(2)

Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, or difficulty breathing

(1)

Serious warnings

Do not use with phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e — serious

Symptoms: Do not use with phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil). May cause severe hypotension and syncope. Tolerance can develop with continuous use; follow dosing schedule carefully. Use caution in patients with recent head trauma or increased intracranial pressure. Not recommended for use in children unless directed by a specialist.

Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)

Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious

Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to nitrates, severe anemia, increased intracranial pressure, hypotension, shock, concurrent use with phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Precautions: Use with caution in patients with hypotension, hypovolemia, recent head trauma, glaucoma, or severe hepatic/renal impairment.

Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)

The FDA label adds a contraindication not in the clinician database — serious

Symptoms: The FDA label adds a contraindication not in the clinician database: concurrent use with riociguat or other soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulators is contraindicated, as it can cause dangerous hypotension, similar in mechanism to the phosphodiesterase-inhibitor interaction. Dose-related headaches, sometimes severe, are common, especially early in treatment. If chest pain has not improved after 3 doses within 15 minutes, seek prompt emergency medical attention — this may indicate a heart attack, not simply undertreated angina.

Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)

Interactions

Medicine or testEffectAction
Recorded interactionsGlyceryl trinitrate can interact with other blood pressure medications, phosphodiesterase inhibitors (for erectile dysfunction), certain antidepressants, and alcohol. These interactions may increase the risk of dangerously low blood pressure or other side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. (1)
Riociguat and other soluble guanylate cyclase stimulatorsContraindicated combination — can cause dangerous hypotension, per FDA labeling, similar to the PDE5-inhibitor interaction. (2)
High-dose aspirinMay enhance the vasodilatory (blood-pressure-lowering) effect of nitroglycerin, per FDA labeling. (2)
ErgotamineThe FDA label advises avoiding concomitant use. (2)

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age

Pregnancy

Human data are limited. Animal studies did not show adverse fetal effects at high doses per the FDA label. Use in pregnancy is a decision for your prescriber, weighing the benefit of treating angina against any potential risk. (2)

Breastfeeding

The FDA label advises against breastfeeding while using nitroglycerin, since it is not known whether the drug passes into breast milk. Discuss feeding options with your healthcare provider. (2)

Children

Frequency: Not applicable.. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children. (2)

Renal Impairment

The clinician database advises general caution in severe hepatic/renal impairment. Neither source reviewed gives a specific renal- or hepatic-dose-adjustment regimen; this remains a genuine gap — use with clinician oversight. (2)

Hepatic Impairment

The clinician database advises general caution in severe hepatic/renal impairment. Neither source reviewed gives a specific renal- or hepatic-dose-adjustment regimen; this remains a genuine gap — use with clinician oversight. (2)

Monitoring

(2)

Storage

Store sublingual tablets in their original glass container, tightly capped, at room temperature 68-77°F (20-25°C), away from moisture and heat, to maintain potency. Do not transfer tablets to another container.

Study the drug class: Nitrates (practice MCQs)

Professional information

Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.

General

Indication: Angina pectoris (prevention and treatment)

Dose summary: One sublingual tablet (0.3-0.6 mg) at onset of chest pain, may repeat every 5 minutes as needed, maximum 3 tablets within 15 minutes; if pain persists after 3 tablets, seek prompt emergency medical attention.

Renal context: No specific renal- or hepatic-impairment dose-adjustment regimen is established in either source reviewed. (1) (2)

Mechanism of action

Frequently asked questions

How quickly does glyceryl trinitrate work for chest pain?

Sublingual glyceryl trinitrate usually works within 1–3 minutes to relieve angina symptoms. If pain persists after 5 minutes, a second dose may be taken, up to a maximum of 3 doses in 15 minutes.

Can I use glyceryl trinitrate every day?

Long-acting forms (patches, ointments) may be used daily to prevent angina. Short-acting forms are used as needed for acute attacks. Follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid tolerance.

What should I do if my chest pain does not improve after taking glyceryl trinitrate?

If chest pain does not improve after 3 doses within 15 minutes, seek emergency medical attention immediately, as this may indicate a heart attack.

Can I drive after taking glyceryl trinitrate?

Glyceryl trinitrate may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Is glyceryl trinitrate safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

How should I store glyceryl trinitrate tablets?

Store sublingual tablets in their original, tightly closed container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not transfer to other containers.

What are signs of an allergic reaction to glyceryl trinitrate?

Signs include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek emergency help if these occur.

What happens if I take too much Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)?

Taking too much Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) can lead to severe hypotension, persistent throbbing headache, palpitations, visual disturbances, and flushing. In extreme cases, methemoglobinemia may occur. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Do not attempt to self-treat the symptoms.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)?

It is generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin). Alcohol can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of this medication, potentially leading to severe dizziness, fainting, and an increased risk of falls. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding alcohol intake with your medication.

Is Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) safe during pregnancy?

Human data on nitroglycerin in pregnancy are limited. Animal studies did not show adverse fetal effects even at high doses, per the FDA label, but that does not guarantee human safety. It is essential to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, so they can weigh the benefits and risks for your specific situation.

What is the mechanism of action of Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)?

Glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin) is converted to nitric oxide (NO) in vascular smooth muscle. NO activates guanylate cyclase, increasing cyclic GMP, which leads to smooth muscle relaxation. This causes vasodilation, primarily of veins (reducing preload) and, to a lesser extent, arteries (reducing afterload), thereby decreasing myocardial oxygen demand and relieving angina. (1)

What is the generic name of Glyceryl Trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)?

The generic name is Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin). It is sold under brand names including Transiderm-Nitro, Nitrolingual, Nitrostat, Minitran, Angised, Rectogesic.

What class of drug is Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin)?

Glyceryl Trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) is classed as: Nitrate vasodilator; Antianginal agent.

References

  1. Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) – clinician-authored medicine recordMedGuideGlobal · International · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
  2. NITROSTAT (nitroglycerin) sublingual tablets – prescribing informationU.S. Food and Drug Administration (DailyMed) · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
  3. Nitroglycerin Spray — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
  4. Glyceryl trinitrate — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 4917)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4

Brand names by country

Single-ingredient Glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin) names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.

Priority countries

India

Source-listed products; local stock and regulatory approval have not been confirmed. Check the exact ingredient, strength, and formulation with a pharmacist.

  • Nitrocontin 2.6 Tablet CRTablet CR · 2.6mg · Modi Mundi Pharma Pvt Ltdpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Nitrolong 2.6 Tablet CRTablet CR · 2.6mg · Mankind Pharma Ltdpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Angispan-TR 2.5mg CapsuleCapsule TR · 2.5mg · USV Private Limitedpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Monit GTN 2.6 Tablet CRTablet CR · 2.6mg · Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltdpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Angiplat 2.5 Capsule TRCapsule TR · 2.5mg · Micro Labs Ltdpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • GTN Sorbitrate CR 2.6 TabletTablet CR · 2.6mg · Abbottpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Caditril 2.6 Tablet CRTablet CR · 2.6mg · Leeford Healthcare Ltdpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Nitro-G 2.6 Tablet CRTablet CR · 2.6mg · Knoll Pharmaceuticals Ltdpharmacy source recorded · checked 2026-09-24
  • Angiwelltablet · 2.6 mg · Corona Remedies Pvt Ltdpharmacy source recorded
  • Myonit SRtablet · 2.6 mg · Troikaa Pharmaceuticals Ltdpharmacy source recorded
  • Angistatcapsule · 2.5 mg · Ranbaxy Laboratories (Sun Pharma)pharmacy source recorded
View brands in additional countries.

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