Chapter 6 - Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN)

Question 1

Presentation?

Answer 1

Metered dose spray containing 400 micrograms of GTN.

Question 2

Indications?

Answer 2

Cardiac chest pain due to angina or myocardial infarction.

Acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema.

Question 3

Actions?

Answer 3

Potent vasodilator resulting in:

Dilation of coronary arteries.
Dilation of systemic veins.
Reduced BP.

Question 4

Contraindications?

Answer 4

Hypotension (systolic: <90 mmHg).
Hypovolaemia.
Head trauma.
Cerebral haemorrhage.
Sildenafil (viagra in last 24 hours).
Unconscious patient.

Question 5

Side effects?

Answer 5

Headache.
Dizziness.
Hypotension.

Question 6

Administration?

Answer 6

Spray under the patients tongue and close mouth.

Question 7

Initial dose?

Answer 7

1-2 spray (400 - 800 mcg)

Question 8

Repeat dose?

Answer 8

1 - 2 spray (400 - 800 mcg)

Question 9

Dose interval?

Answer 9

5 - 10 minutes

Question 10

Max dose?

Answer 10

No limit.