Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) is a vasodilator (it helps to widen blood vessels) and is used orally in the treatment of angina. Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused when your heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood.

HOW IT WORKS

Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) contains Glyceryl Trinitrate which is a vasodilator (a medicine that widens your blood vessels). It relaxes your blood vessels and helps in controlling blood pressure. It also lowers the amount of oxygen required by your heart. Thus, it reduces the workload on your heart and prevents attacks of angina (chest pain).

MAJOR AND MINOR SIDE EFFECTS

- Headache;

- Dizziness;

- Weakness;

- Vomiting;

- Spinning sensation;

- Lack of energy;

- Heartburn;

- Restlessness;

- Increased heart beat.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THIS MEDICINE TO TAKE EFFECT?

The effect of Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) is very quick and can be observed within an hour of taking it orally. The onset of action for each preparation is as follows:

- Sublingual tablets (tablet to be placed below your tongue): 1 to 3 minutes;

- Buccal extended-release tablets (tablet to be placed between your gums and cheeks): 2 to 3 minutes.

HOW LONG DO THE EFFECTS OF THIS MEDICINE LAST?

Duration of action of Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) differs as per the form in which it is taken orally. The duration of action as per the dosage form are:

- Extended-release tablets: 8 to 12 hours;

- Sublingual Tablets (tablet to be placed below your tongue): 30 minutes;

- Buccal extended-release (tablet to be placed between your gums and cheeks): 5 hours.

IS IT SAFE TO CONSUME ALCOHOL WHILE TAKING THIS MEDICINE?

Do not consume alcohol if you are on treatment with Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin). Alcohol may increase the risk of major side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, breathing difficulties, etc.

IS THIS A HABIT FORMING MEDICINE?

No habit forming tendencies were reported for Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin).

CAN THIS MEDICINE BE TAKEN DURING PREGNANCY?

It is recommended to consult your doctor before taking Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) if you are pregnant.

CAN THIS MEDICINE BE TAKEN WHILE BREAST-FEEDING?

It is recommended not to take Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) as it is unknown if the medicine passes into your breastmilk. You should consult your doctor before using this medicine to understand all risks and benefits.

MISSED DOSE

If you have missed the dose of this medicine at a given time, then take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost the time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

OVERDOSE

If you have intentionally or accidentally consumed more than the prescribed amount then you might feel headache, confusion, fever, change in the heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, etc. Contact your doctor immediately for further guidance.

Take Nitrocontin (Nitroglycerin) exactly as advised by your doctor. You may take it with or without food as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take Glyceryl Trinitrate in a higher dosage than the dose advised/prescribed by your doctor as it can lead to complications.

If you experience any side effects, consult your doctor immediately.

You should not stop taking the medicine abruptly as it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, it is important to complete your treatment course.

It is advisable to take plenty of water with it to avoid gastric problems.

You should not crush or chew it as it can reduce its effectiveness. Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor as it can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Complete the whole treatment for maximum benefits.