II. Indications
-
Congestive Heart Failure Exacerbation Management
- Nitroglycerin Infusion is used in critical CHF exacerbations for rapid Preload reduction
- Less severe CHF exacerbations may benefit from early Nitroglycerin Ointment during initial stabilization
- Unlike Nitroglycerin Infusion that requires ED/ICU care, Nitroglycerin Ointment may be used on regular medical wards
-
Angina Pectoris
- Other Nitroglycerin preparations are preferred for acute Angina (e.g. Sublingual Nitroglycerin, Nitroglycerin Infusion)
- For chronic Angina, use Long Acting Nitroglycerin (e.g. Isosorbide or Nitroglycerin Patch) instead
III. Precautions
- Poor absorption (Other preparations are preferred)
IV. Pharmacokinetics
- One inch of ointment equivalent to 10 mcg/min IV infusion
V. Dosing
-
Nitroglycerin 2% ointment (15 mg per inch)
- Start: 0.5 inch every 8 hours
- Maintenance: 1-2 inches every 8 hours
- Maximum: 4-5 inches every 4 to 6 hours
VI. Safety
- Pregnancy Category C
- Unknown safety in Lactation
VII. Mechanism
- See Nitroglycerin
VIII. Adverse Effects
- See Nitroglycerin
IX. Resources
- Nitro-Bid Nitroglycerin Ointment
X. References
- Olson (2020) Clinical Pharmacology, Medmaster Miami, p. 70-1
- Hamilton (2020) Tarascon Pocket Pharmacopoeia