Nitroglycerin Drug Card for Paramedics

Study Notes

Trade Names

Nitroglycerin is known by three trade names: Nitrostat, Nitro-Bid, and Tridil.

Classification

Classified as a Vasodilator.

Mechanism of Action

Acts as a smooth muscle relaxant targeting vasculature, bronchial, uterine, and intestinal smooth muscle.
Dilates arterioles and veins, reducing preload and afterload.
Decreases heart workload and myocardial oxygen demand.

Indications

Utilized for acute angina pectoris, ischemic chest pain, hypertension, congestive heart failure (CHF), and pulmonary edema.

Contraindications

Should not be administered in cases of hypotension, hypovolemia, intracranial bleeding or head injury, pericardial tamponade, severe bradycardia or tachycardia, right ventricular infarction.
Avoid use if administering within 24 hours of Cialis (tadalafil), Levitra, or 48 hours of Viagra.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, weakness, reflex tachycardia, syncope, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, muscle twitching, and diaphoresis.

Drug Interactions

May have additive effects with other vasodilators.
Incompatible with other IV medications.

Supply Forms

Available in tablet forms of 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, and 0.6 mg.
NGT spray contains 0.4 mg per actuation.
NTG IV (Tridil) is supplied in 200 µg/mL concentration in D5W glass vials.

Dosage and Administration for Adults

Sublingual tablets: 0.3-0.4 mg; repeat every 5 minutes, max 3 doses.
NGT spray: 1-2 sprays (0.5-1 second) at 5-minute intervals, max of 3 sprays in 15 minutes.
NTG IV infusion: start at 10 µg/min, increase by 10 µg/min every 3-5 minutes to a max of 200 µg/min.

Onset, Peak, and Duration

Onset time is 1-3 minutes; peak effect occurs in 5-10 minutes.
Duration for sublingual administration is 20-30 minutes; duration for IV is 1-10 minutes post-infusion discontinuation.

Special Considerations

Pregnancy Category C.
Hypotension risk is higher in the elderly.
Inferior wall infarct on ECG should be checked for right ventricular infarct before administering.
Store nitroglycerin in airtight containers.
Administer using an infusion pump with a vented IV set and non-PVC tubing.
Active ingredients may have a stinging sensation upon administration.

Description

This quiz covers essential information about Nitroglycerin, including its trade names, classification as a vasodilator, and mechanism of action. Perfect for paramedic students or healthcare professionals looking to refresh their knowledge on this important medication.