GTN Spray
Manufacturer
Medley Pharmaceuticals
Salt Composition
Nitroglycerin (0.4mg)
Key Information
Short Description
GTN Spray is used to treat and prevent heart-related chest pain (angina). It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels so blood can flow more easily to the heart.
Dosage Form
Sublingual Spray
Introduction
GTN Spray should be taken at the first sign of chest pain. It should be used in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Seek medical help immediately if your chest pain continues for more than 15 minutes. Some people may be advised to use this medicine prior to any exertional activity or exercise which may precipitate angina. The most common side effect of this medicine is a headache which may be severe. This can sometimes be helped by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding alcohol. You may also experience lightheadedness which could increase your risk of having a fall and other side effects such as flushing, weakness, and increased heart rate.
Directions for Use
To use the spray, open your mouth, lift your tongue, and press the bottle button down firmly to spray the medicine under your tongue. Close your mouth after you have sprayed the dose. You should not shake the bottle before use. GTN Spray may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Safety Information
Side Effects
Headache Lightheadedness Flushing Weakness Increased heart rate
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol while taking GTN Spray may cause symptoms such as flushing, increased heart beat, nausea, thirst, chest pain and low blood pressure (Disulfiram reaction).
Breastfeeding Warning
GTN Spray is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
GTN Spray is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.
Interacting Medicines
Sildenafil Tadalafil Udenafil Vardenafil
How it works
GTN Spray is a nitrate. It works by improving blood supply to the heart and relaxing the blood vessels which decreases the oxygen demand of the heart and reduces its workload. It thus prevents/treats attacks of angina (chest pain). Relaxation of blood vessels lowers blood pressure.
Quick Tips
GTN Spray may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires concentration until you know how it affects you. Do not consume alcohol while taking GTN Spray as it may cause increased dizziness. It may cause headaches which usually go away after a few days of continued treatment. Inform your doctor if it persists. You may develop tolerance to GTN Spray with time meaning that the same dose may be less effective next time. Follow the prescribed dosing schedule to avoid this. Stop taking medications (prescribed for erectile dysfunction) like sildenafil or tadalafil while on treatment with GTN Spray as it may cause low blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions
How long does GTN Spray take to work?
GTN Spray starts working quickly. If the medication is kept under the tongue, its effect starts within 1-3 minutes and reaches its peak within 5 minutes.
What is the effect of GTN Spray on blood pressure?
GTN Spray reduces blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, but it is not recommended for treating high blood pressure. The drop in blood pressure may cause lightheadedness, especially when changing positions suddenly.
Does the effect of GTN Spray wear off after some time?
Yes, prolonged use of GTN Spray may lead to tolerance, meaning its effectiveness may decrease over time. Therefore, doctors usually prescribe the smallest effective dose for acute angina attacks.
What happens if I overuse GTN Spray?
Excessive GTN Spray use can result in low blood pressure, sweating, nausea, vomiting, headache, a rapid weak pulse. It may also cause weakness and lightheadedness upon standing, and in some cases even fainting. In such cases, immediate medical attention is required.
Can I stop using GTN Spray when I feel better?
Stopping GTN Spray abruptly can trigger angina attacks, especially if you have used it for several weeks or longer. Consult your doctor, who will advise gradual dosage reduction over 4 to 6 weeks before stopping completely.
Does GTN Spray stop heart attacks?
GTN Spray is prescribed to prevent angina attacks in patients with coronary artery disease. In this condition, narrowed coronary arteries restrict blood flow to the heart, causing it to work harder. GTN Spray prevents angina by relaxing these arteries, thus lessening the cardiac workload and improving oxygen supply.
Can I take sildenafil if I am taking GTN Spray?
No, you should not combine GTN Spray with sildenafil. The combination may increase the risk of dangerously low blood pressure, which is hazardous.
