c28 - mod 7

Question 1

Nitroglycerin classes

Answer 1

Therapeutic Class: Antianginal drug

Pharmacologic Class: Organic nitrate, vasodilator

Question 2

Actions and Uses of Nitroglycerin

Answer 2

sublingual, PO, intravenous (IV), transmucosal, transdermal, topical, and extended-release PO forms.

taken while an acute angina episode is in progress or just prior to physical activity. When given sublingually, it reaches peak plasma levels in 2 to 4 minutes, thus terminating angina pain rapidly. Chest pain that does not respond within 10 to 15 minutes after a single dose of sublingual nitroglycerin may indicate MI, and emergency medical services (EMS) should be contacted. The transdermal and oral extended-release forms are for prophylaxis only because they have a relatively slow onset of action.

Question 3

Administration Alerts of Nitroglycerin

Answer 3

For IV administration, use a glass IV bottle and special IV tubing because plastic absorbs nitrates significantly, thus reducing the patient dose.

Cover the IV bottle to reduce the degradation of nitrates due to light exposure.

Use gloves when applying nitroglycerin paste or ointment to prevent self-administration.