Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Nitroglycerin
Other Names: Nitroglycerin Slocaps Extended-Release Capsules
Drug Class: Nitrates
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Nitroglycerin Slocaps Extended-Release Capsules? (Back to top)
NITROGLYCERIN is a type of vasodilator. It relaxes blood vessels, increasing the blood and oxygen supply to your heart. This medicine is used to prevent chest pain caused by angina. It will not help to stop an episode of chest pain. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease
• low blood pressure, or low blood volume
• previous heart attack or heart failure
• an unusual or allergic reaction to nitroglycerin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow whole. Do not crush or chew. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly or your symptoms may get worse. Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take. If your doctor wants you to stop the medicine, the dose will be slowly lowered over time to avoid any side effects.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• certain migraine medicines like ergotamine and dihydroergotamine
• medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction like sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil

• medicines for high blood pressure
• other medicines used to treat angina

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• blurred vision
• dry mouth
• skin rash
• sweating
• the feeling of extreme pressure in the head
• unusually weak or tired

• flushing of the face or neck
• headache
• irregular heartbeat, palpitations
• nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your heart rate and blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you feel your medicine is no longer having any effect.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep dry in a tightly sealed container. Heat and moisture can reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:July 24, 2006

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company