A drug that dilates blood vessels and is used to prevent and treat angina. It is administered by mouth and large doses may cause flushing, headache, and fainting.
Also known as trinitrin and nitroglycerin, this is a drug used in the treatment of angina pectoris and left ventricular failure of the heat. It is normally given as a sublingual tablet or spray, though percutaneous preparations may be useful in the prophylaxis of angina particularly for patients who suffer attacks at rest, and especially at night. Sublingually it provides rapid symptomatic relief of angina, but is only effective for 20—30 minutes. It is a potent vasodilator, and this may lead to unwanted side-effects such as flushing, headache, and postural hypotension. Its antispasmodic effects are also valuable in the treatment of asthma, biliary and renal colic, and certain cases of vomiting.