Nitroglycerin
Active ingredient · 2 therapeutic classes
Sold as NITROSTAT · NITROJECT · RHO-NITRO PUMPSPRAY · NITROLINGUAL PUMPSPRAY · NITRO-DUR 0.4
- Drug class
- Organic Nitrates
- Availability
- Prescription only
- Routes
- Transdermal, Intravenous, Sublingual
- Markets covered
- 2
- Products on record
- 22
- FDA reports (12 mo)
- 2,374
Overview
Plain-language summary, compiled from the cited regulatory records
Nitroglycerin is an organic nitrate [1] used to treat angina pectoris, a condition characterized by chest pain due to coronary artery disease [1]. It is approved for the acute relief of an angina attack and for the acute prophylaxis, or prevention, of angina episodes [1]. Nitroglycerin works as a vasodilator, widening blood vessels to improve blood flow [1].
This medication is available under various brand names [N]. In the past 12 months, there have been 2,374 adverse event reports associated with nitroglycerin [2]. Among the most frequently reported adverse events were dyspnoea, fatigue, and headache [2]. Other reported events included the drug being ineffective or used off-label [2].
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Regulator | Products | Last revision |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA Canada | Health Canada | 19 | February 4, 2026 |
| US United States | FDA | 3 | January 17, 2025 |
CACanada· Health Canada
19 products
Uses
TRINIPATCH (nitroglycerin) used intermittently (see 10 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY) is indicated for the prevention of anginal attacks in patients with stable angina pectoris associated with coronary artery disease. It can be used in conjunction with other antianginal agents such as beta-blockers and/or calcium antagonists.
TRINIPATCH is not intended for the immediate relief of acute attacks of angina pectoris. Sublingual nitroglycerin preparations should be used for this purpose. 1 Pediatrics No data are available to Health Canada; therefore, Health Canada has not authorized an indication for pediatric use.
2 Geriatrics No special information is available on the use of TRINIPATCH in geriatric population. However, there is no evidence suggesting that dosage should be adapted in these patients.
USUnited States· FDA
3 products
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are indicated for the acute relief of an attack or acute prophylaxis of angina pectoris due to coronary artery disease. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are a nitrate vasodilator indicated for relief of an attack or prophylaxis of angina pectoris due to coronary artery disease.
( 1 )
How to take
Drug interactions
Known interactions involving Nitroglycerin. Select one for details. This list is informational and not a complete interaction checker.
Showing 240 of 528. Type above to find a specific drug.
Interaction data compiled from DDInter (academic, CC-BY). Severity classification only - this is not a complete interaction checker and not medical advice.
Sources & citations
- [1]Health Canada (DPD) · 02230732 · revised February 4, 2026
- [2]FDA DailyMed · 041f127e-5166-44… · revised October 15, 2024 [PDF]
- [3]OpenFDA adverse-event reports (US), 12 months ending June 4, 2026.
Information on this page is compiled from public regulatory records. Drugvu is not affiliated with any regulator or pharmaceutical manufacturer. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.