Why nitroglycerin oral?

Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator. This is a medicine that widens (dilates) blood vessels. It can relieve angina quickly. That's because it can widen the coronary arteries, which bring blood and oxygen to the heart. This improves blood flow to the heart muscle, which relieves symptoms.

Quick-acting forms of nitroglycerin are used to relieve angina or are used just before activities that typically cause angina.

You may also take daily long-acting medicine to prevent angina. These medicines include nitrates (including nitroglycerin), beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. These types of medicines can prevent angina that occurs during daily activities. They are not used to stop sudden symptoms of angina.

Nitroglycerin is a type of nitrate that comes in a tablet form. It prevents and treats chest pain by relaxing your blood vessels. You should take this medication at the first sign of chest pain or tightness. To take this medication, place one tablet underneath your tongue and let it dissolve in your mouth.