How to Use Nitroglycerin Tablets for the Onset of Heart Attack
Nitroglycerin tablets, as well as sprays and patches, are often used when a heart attack seems apparent. The medication works to relax the various blood vessels of the heart so that blood flow is adequately restored. It also ensures that the heart receives proper oxygen flow. This assists in relieving the pain that is often associated with heart attack, which is more commonly referred to as angina.
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Instructions
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Make a doctor’s appointment to ask for a nitroglycerin tablet prescription.
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Submit to any tests that may be required to assure that the drug can be taken safely. These tests may include, but are not necessarily limited to, a blood test to check the red blood cell count.
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Take nitroglycerin tablets only as prescribed by a physician.
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Sit or lay down whenever a heart attack is suspected. Do not, under any circumstances, take part in any dangerous activity such as driving, walking up or down stairs, or operating dangerous machinery nor engage in any kind of strenuous activity if a heart attack is suspected.
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Place one or more nitroglycerin tablets, as prescribed, underneath the tongue until they dissolve. In the meantime, avoid drinking or swallowing anything, including saliva.
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Repeat the dosage of the nitroglycerin tablets if chest pain isn’t decreased or eliminated within a half hour.
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Contact a physician or emergency facility if chest pain does not subside or gets worse at any time.
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Recognize the possible side effects of nitroglycerin. These include but are not limited to drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, blackout, headache, dry mouth or nausea. Report the side effects of long term blurred vision of blackout to a physician as quickly as possible.
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Carry the nitroglycerin tablets at all times. It is imperative that they are readily accessible should chest pain occur.
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Tips & Warnings
Those uncertain if they are allergic to nitroglycerin should request an allergy test before taking the drug.
Check that the nitroglycerin tablets won’t interact with any medication being taken for another health issue.
Store nitroglycerin tablets at room temperature or slightly below room temperature. Keep them away from heat and open flames.
Protect the medication by keeping it in its original container, tightly sealed.
Nitroglycerin tablets are not safe for women who are pregnant or those who are breast feeding.
Keep the medication away from children.
Do not take medications that are more than 1 year old. Throw them away and request a new prescription.
Dispose of medications according to acceptable OSHA standards.
