Product Description

Nitroglycerin 2.6mg Controlled Release Tablet IP is a medication used to prevent and treat angina pectoris (heart-related chest pain). It belongs to the nitrate class of drugs, which act as vasodilators to relax and widen blood vessels.

Uses

Nitroglycerin 2.6mg Controlled Release (CR) Tablet IP is primarily used for the long-term management and prevention of heart-related chest pain, also known as angina. As a controlled-release tablet, it is designed for consistent, sustained action rather than for immediate relief of an ongoing angina attack.

• Angina Pectoris: The main use of this medication is to treat and prevent chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, typically caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. The CR formulation helps reduce the frequency and severity of these attacks over time.

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) management: For patients with CAD, nitroglycerin 2.6mg CR helps manage the condition by dilating blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. This sustained effect improves the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart muscle.

How it works

Nitroglycerin 2.6mg Controlled Release (CR) Tablet IP works by a two-pronged mechanism that both increases the heart's oxygen supply and decreases its workload. This reduces the chest pain associated with angina pectoris. As a controlled-release formulation, the effects are prolonged and steady, making it suitable for preventing angina attacks rather than treating them acutely.

• The body converts the nitroglycerin in the tablet into a signaling molecule called nitric oxide (NO).

• Nitric oxide activates an enzyme called guanylyl cyclase in the smooth muscles of the blood vessel walls.

• This process ultimately leads to the relaxation of the smooth muscle fibers, causing the blood vessels to widen and allowing blood to flow more easily. 

Benefits

• Provides consistent, long-term prevention of angina attacks.

• Improves exercise tolerance by reducing chest pain during physical activities.

• Helps manage CAD by reducing heart workload and enhancing oxygen supply.

How to use

• Take orally on a regular schedule, often once or twice daily, as prescribed.

• Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it, as this can cause overdose.

• Can be taken prophylactically before activities that trigger angina (e.g., exercise, stress).

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache.

• Dizziness.

• Lightheadedness.

• Flushing.

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical help):

• Severe hypotension (low blood pressure).

• Fainting.

• Rapid heartbeat.

Report any persistent or severe symptoms to your doctor.

Safety Advice

• Swallow whole: Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet to avoid overdose.

• Alcohol: Avoid, as it can intensify side effects like dizziness and flushing.

• Do not stop abruptly: Consult your doctor before stopping to prevent rebound angina.

• Driving: Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your doctor; use only if the benefits outweigh risks.

• Contraindications: Do not use if you have severe hypotension, a recent myocardial infarction, or hypersensitivity to nitrates.

• Drug Interactions: May interact with PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil), causing dangerous blood pressure drops. Inform your doctor about all medications.

• Monitoring: Regular blood pressure checks; manage headaches with acetaminophen if needed.

Storage Conditions

• Store at a temperature below 86°F (30°C).

• Protect from light and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children.

FAQs

Is this a controlled-release tablet for immediate relief of angina?

No. The 2.6mg controlled-release (CR) tablets are for the long-term prevention and management of angina. For immediate relief of a sudden angina attack, a fast-acting form of nitroglycerin, such as a sublingual (under the tongue) tablet or oral spray, is used. 

How should I take the tablet?

Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break it, as this would disrupt the controlled-release mechanism and could lead to a sudden release of a large dose. Taking it at a fixed time each day is recommended to maintain a consistent level of medication in your body. 

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed. 

Can I take erectile dysfunction medication with Nitroglycerin?

No, absolutely not. Taking nitroglycerin with PDE-5 inhibitors like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), or vardenafil can cause a severe and life-threatening drop in blood pressure. 

Is a headache a common side effect?

Yes, headaches are the most common side effect and can be severe when you first start taking the medication. It is often a sign that the medication is working and usually subsides with continued use. 

Does the effect of the medication wear off over time?

Yes, long-term or excessive use of nitrates can lead to a condition called nitrate tolerance, where the medication becomes less effective. Your doctor may prescribe a "nitrate-free" interval, often overnight, to help maintain the drug's effectiveness. 

What does too much Nitroglycerin do?

An overdose of nitroglycerin can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, leading to symptoms like a weak and fast pulse, sweating, nausea, vomiting, fainting, and potentially unconsciousness. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medication?

No, it is best to avoid alcohol. It can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of the medication and worsen side effects like dizziness and flushing. 

Can I stop taking Nitroglycerin if I feel better?

No, you should never stop taking this medication abruptly, especially if you have been on it for a while. Doing so could lead to a sudden worsening of your angina symptoms. Your doctor will advise you on how to reduce your dose gradually if discontinuation is necessary.