Minitran

Common Name: nitroglycerin patch

How does Minitran work?

Nitroglycerin belongs to the class of medications called anti-anginals. Nitroglycerin is used to relieve acute attacks of angina (chest pain). Nitroglycerin relieves acute angina attacks by relaxing blood vessels and increasing the oxygen and blood supply to the heart. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed here. If you're unsure why you are using this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Minitran?

To use this medication, spray it once or twice (as directed by doctor) onto or under the tongue at the first sign of an angina attack. Do not inhale. The dose may be repeated twice with at least five minute interval between each dose, or as directed by your doctor. If relief is still not obtained after three doses of nitroglycerin (i.e., 15 minutes), seek medical help immediately. While using nitroglycerin spray, remain at rest in a sitting position and keep the container vertical with the nozzle head up. Place the opening in the nozzle head as close to the mouth as possible. Avoid getting the spray in your eyes. Store nitroglycerin spray at room temperature (15°C to 30°C) away from hot water, radiators, or other sources of heat. Do not incinerate the canister and do not attempt to open it. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the above, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

What form(s) does Minitran come in?

p>Minitran is available in strengths of 0.2 mg/h, 0.4 mg/h, and 0.6 mg/h. 0.2 mg/h: Each patch is designed to release nitroglycerin 0.2 mg/h. 0.4 mg/h: Each patch is designed to release nitroglycerin 0.4 mg/h. 0.6 mg/h: Each patch is designed to release nitroglycerin 0.6 mg/h. This product contains a hypoallergenic, acrylate-based adhesive. Each patch is packaged in foil.

What should I NOT take with Minitran?

The nitroglycerin patch should not be used by anyone who has: extremely low blood pressure acute circulatory failure associated with severe lowering of blood pressure (states of collapse or shock) severe dizziness when getting up from a lying or sitting position reduced heart function due to obstruction (e.g., narrowing of the heart valves) severe anemia increased eye pressure (glaucoma) increased pressure within the head (e.g., after an accident) an allergy to nitroglycerin or other nitrates or nitrites or to any of the ingredients of the medication an allergy to the adhesive used in nitroglycerin patches People who use the nitroglycerin patch regularly or intermittently should not use sildenafil because a life-threatening lowering of blood pressure can result.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Minitran?

Acute angina attacks: Nitroglycerin patches are not intended for immediate relief of acute attacks of angina. Sublingual (under the tongue) nitroglycerin preparations (spray or tablets) should be used for this purpose. Low blood pressure: Headaches or symptoms of low blood pressure, such as weakness or dizziness, particularly when getting up suddenly from a sitting or lying position, may result from taking too much nitroglycerin. If these symptoms occur, your doctor may reduce the dose or stop the use of the nitroglycerin patch. People who might be negatively affected by low blood pressure should use this medication with caution. People who take diuretics or have pre-existing low blood pressure may be at more risk of being negatively affected. Occupational hazards: People using this medication may experience faintness or dizziness and reduced reaction time when driving or operating machinery, especially at the start of treatment. Use appropriate caution. Medical conditions: The benefits and safety of the nitroglycerin patch for people who have an acute heart attack or congestive heart failure have not been established. Symptom changes: If your symptoms of angina increase at any time (including during the period of the day that you aren't taking the medication), be sure to tell your doctor. Tolerance: Nitroglycerin users may develop tolerance to the medication, resulting in it not working as well. Tolerance to other nitrates or nitrites can also happen, especially if a medication-free period is not observed each day. As tolerance to nitroglycerin patches develops, the effect of fast-acting sublingual (under the tongue) nitroglycerin is somewhat reduced. Pregnancy: This medication has not been studied for use by pregnant women. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk. Before nursing while using this medication discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication for children have not been established.