How to Use Nitrates to Treat Angina

Angina is chest pain caused by insufficient blood flow to the heart. Angina can be indicative of coronary artery disease and should be taken seriously. Nitrates are among the treatment options your doctor may prescribe. Taken correctly, nitrates can help manage angina.

Instructions

• 1

  Measure the risk of using nitrates to treat angina with your doctor. Nitrates may not be prescribed if you have medical conditions including glaucoma, thyroid disease, or anemia. The doctor will perform a thorough assessment before prescribing nitrates to treat angina.

• 2

  Understand the prescribed nitrate dosage form. Nitrates can be prescribed as pills, transdermal patches, ointments, and sublingual sprays. Proper technique is needed to ensure each form can be effectively used by the body.

• 3

  Take the nitrates exactly as prescribed. This will help prevent tolerance to the nitrates as well as dangerous overdoses.

• 4

  Keep track of the frequency, duration, and intensity of your angina. This will help the doctor adjust dosages or rule out nitrate therapy. Uncontrolled angina could be indicative of a serious problem and could lead to death. Notify your doctor of all angina episodes including those relieved by your medications.

• 5

  Report any side effects to your doctor. Common side effects of nitrate therapy include headaches and dizziness. Note that some effects such as a burning sensation under your tongue after using sublingual nitroglycerin indicate the medication is working properly.

• 6

  Refill prescriptions for nitrates regularly. This will ensure you have access to the nitrates in emergencies as well as daily therapy. Make note of the expiration date of your prescribed nitrates. Nitrates will not work effectively once expired.