Description

What Is Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray?

Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray is a sublingual (under-the-tongue) aerosol spray containing glyceryl trinitrate, a member of the nitrate medicine family. It works by widening blood vessels, improving oxygen supply to the heart, and reducing the workload on the cardiovascular system.

This spray is primarily used to:

• Relieve angina chest pain at the onset of an attack

• Prevent angina caused by physical exertion, emotional stress, or exposure to cold

Angina is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart and can be a warning sign for conditions such as coronary artery disease.

Key Benefits of Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray

• Rapid angina relief within minutes

• Prevents angina triggered by exertion or stress

• Easy-to-use sublingual format ideal for emergencies

• Portable and discreet for day-to-day use

• Trusted nitrate therapy used worldwide for managing stable angina

How Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray Works

Once sprayed under the tongue, glyceryl trinitrate is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. It works by:

• Relaxing and widening blood vessels (vasodilation)

• Increasing oxygen delivery to the heart

• Reducing strain on the heart muscle

• Rapidly relieving chest pain and tightness

This fast onset of action provides confidence and control for people living with angina.

How to Use Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and the patient information leaflet.

Standard Dose

• Use 1–2 sprays under the tongue at the start of an angina attack

• Do not inhale the spray

• Close your mouth immediately after spraying

• If needed, a second spray can be taken after several minutes

• Do not exceed 3 sprays for a single attack

To Prevent Angina (Before Activity)

Use one spray a few minutes before activities that may trigger symptoms (e.g., walking briskly, climbing stairs, emotional stress, or going out in the cold).

If Symptoms Do Not Improve

Call emergency services if:

• Chest pain does not improve after 2 sprays,

• Pain worsens, or

• Pain returns quickly

For severe symptoms or suspected heart attack, follow NHS emergency advice.

Warnings & Precautions

Do not use Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray if you:

• Are allergic to nitrates

• Have extremely low blood pressure

• Are taking medicines for erectile dysfunction (e.g., sildenafil/Viagra)

Speak to your doctor before use if you have:

• Low blood pressure or dehydration

• Anaemia

• Thyroid disease

• Glaucoma

• Recent head injury

• Heart valve problems

Possible Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. They may include:

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Flushing

• Light-headedness

• Low blood pressure

Serious side effects (seek help immediately):

• Fainting

• Severe drop in blood pressure

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

• Worsening chest pain

• Tongue irritation or blistering

If side effects become severe or persistent, consult a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to use Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray?

Use at the first sign of an angina attack. If pain persists after one spray, a second dose may be used. Seek emergency care if pain does not improve after two sprays.

Can Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray be used to prevent angina?

Yes. One spray, used a few minutes before exertion or exposure to cold, can help prevent angina symptoms.

Can Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray 400 be used alongside other heart medicines?

Many heart medications are safe to combine with nitrates, but some combinations may cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Always check with your doctor.

Does Glyceryl Trinitrate Spray expire?

Yes. Always check the expiry date and prime the spray monthly to ensure correct function.

What should I do if the spray stops working?

Tolerance can occur with prolonged use. Contact your doctor if you notice the spray becoming less effective.