Nitrates: What They Do, Medicines
Nitrates are prescription medicines that relax blood vessels so the heart needs less oxygen. They are used to prevent or relieve angina, which is chest pain from the heart not getting enough blood. Examples include isosorbide dinitrate and glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin). They must not be taken with erectile dysfunction medicines such as sildenafil.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Nitrates work?
Nitrates release nitric oxide in the body, which relaxes the muscle in the walls of veins and arteries. Blood vessels widen, less blood returns to the heart and the heart has to work less hard, so it needs less oxygen.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Nitrates. They are listed A to Z.
- Isosorbide dinitrate: Isosorbide dinitrate is a prescription nitrate used to prevent angina, which is chest pain from the heart not getting enough blood.
- Nitroglycerin: Nitroglycerin, also called glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), is a prescription nitrate used for angina, which is chest pain from the heart not getting enough blood.
Common questions
Why are nitrates not taken with erectile dysfunction medicines?
Medicines such as sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil also widen blood vessels. Together with a nitrate, blood pressure can fall dangerously low, causing fainting or heart problems. Labels forbid the combination. Tell every doctor which medicines you use.
Why do nitrates cause headaches?
Widening of blood vessels in the head can cause a throbbing headache, especially when starting treatment. It often fades within days. Do not change the times of doses on your own; talk to your doctor if it is severe or lasts.
Can the effect of a nitrate wear off?
Yes. Used all day without a break, the body can become less responsive, called tolerance. Doctors plan dosing with a nitrate-free period for this reason. Take it only as prescribed, and do not change the timing yourself.
Sources
- Isosorbide dinitrate tablets: prescribing information. DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- Isosorbide (isosorbide dinitrate and mononitrate). MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets: prescribing information. DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- Side effects of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN). NHS (UK)
- ATC/DDD Index: C01DA Organic nitrates. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission