Long-Acting Nitroglycerin
Nitroglycerin relieves angina (chest pain) by getting more blood and oxygen to your heart. Long-acting nitroglycerin helps prevent angina from starting.
To Prevent Angina
If you use a patch:
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Remove the old patch. Then apply a new one to a clean, dry place on the chest or upper arm.
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Pick a new place each time you change the patch.
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Do not apply where skin is hairy, cut, irritated, scarred, or tattooed.
If you use a tablet or capsule:
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Take the tablet or capsule 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.
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Swallow it with a glass of water. Do not break, chew, or crush the tablet or capsule.
If you use an ointment:
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Measure the prescribed amount of ointment onto the paper that comes with it.
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Spread a thin, even layer on a clean patch of skin. Do not rub it in. Tape the paper in place with skin tape for as long as instructed, then remove it. 
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Use a new spot each time you apply the paste.
Precautions
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Do not suddenly stop using nitroglycerin to prevent angina. This could cause an attack. Check with your healthcare provider first.
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Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Too much alcohol can cause dizziness or fainting.
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Tell your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbs you use. Nitroglycerin can interact with other medications and cause serious problems. NOTE: Do not take Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis at any time if you are on nitroglycerin.
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Check the expiration date. Nitroglycerin can lose its effectiveness over time.
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Call your healthcare provider if you have chest pain that lasts longer and occurs more often, an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, blurred vision, or a severe headache.
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Date Last Reviewed:
1/15/2007
Date Last Modified:
10/1/2004