Introduction

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Uses of GTN

Angina (heart-related chest pain)

Side effects of GTN

Blurred vision
Decreased blood pressure
Dizziness
Headache
Increased heart rate
Lightheadedness
Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation)

How to use GTN

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. GTN may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

How GTN works

GTN is a nitrate. It works by relaxing the blood vessels which decreases the oxygen demand of the heart and reduces its workload, thereby preventing/treating attacks of angina (chest pain).

What if you forget to take GTN?

If you miss a dose of GTN, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Quick Tips

GTN may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires concentration until you know how it affects you.
Do not consume alcohol while taking GTN as it may cause increased dizziness.
It may cause headaches which usually go away after a few days of continued treatment. Inform your doctor if it persists.
You may develop tolerance to GTN with time, meaning that the same dose may be less effective next time. Follow the prescribed dosing schedule to avoid this.
Stop taking medications (prescribed for erectile dysfunction) like sildenafil or tadalafil while on treatment with GTN as it may cause low blood pressure.

Safety Advice

UNSAFE – Alcohol: Consuming alcohol while taking GTN may cause symptoms such as flushing, increased heart beat, nausea, thirst, chest pain and low blood pressure (Disulfiram reaction).
SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Pregnancy: GTN is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.
SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Breastfeeding: GTN is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
UNSAFE – Driving: GTN may decrease alertness, affect your vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur.
SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Kidney: GTN is probably safe to use in patients with kidney disease. Limited data available suggests that dose adjustment of GTN may not be needed in these patients. Please consult your doctor.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR – Liver: There is limited information available on the use of GTN in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.