Nitroglycerin

Question 1

Indication

Answer 1

Chest pain, suspicious for myocardial infarction

Question 2

Dosage

Answer 2

0.4 mg every 5 minutes as needed, up to 3 times

Question 3

Administration

Answer 3

Sublingual tablet or spray

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

Hypotension: systolic BP less than 90 - 100, as determined by your service protocols (anything less than 100, do not give on exam)

Use of erectile dysfunction drug with in prior 24 hours, ask women as well, such as “have you taken any ED like meds in the last 24 hours?”

Allergy is extremely rare

Ask if the patient has taken any nitroglycerin today?

Question 5

Side effects

Answer 5

Headache, hypotension, reflex tachycardia