Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets 6.4 mg Uses
Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets 6.4 mg is primarily used to prevent angina (chest pain) in people with coronary artery disease. It belongs to a class of medications called nitrates, which work by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing more blood and oxygen to reach the heart. This medicine is intended for long-term preventive therapy, not for relieving an acute angina attack. It is often prescribed for chronic stable angina to reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain episodes.
How Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets 6.4 mg Works
Nitroglycerin is converted in the body to nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator. Nitric oxide relaxes smooth muscles in the walls of veins and arteries, leading to dilation of these vessels. This reduces the workload on the heart by decreasing venous return (preload) and, to a lesser extent, arterial resistance (afterload). As a result, the heart requires less oxygen, and blood flow to the heart muscle improves, helping to prevent angina. The controlled-release formulation ensures a steady release of the medication over several hours, providing prolonged protection.
Common Side Effects of Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets 6.4 mg
Like all medicines, Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects include:
- Headache (often throbbing, especially at the start of treatment)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Flushing (redness and warmth of the face and neck)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension), which may cause fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
Most of these side effects are temporary and may diminish as your body adjusts. If any side effect persists or worsens, inform your doctor.
Expert Advice for Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets 6.4 mg
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without medical advice.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as it is designed to release the medicine slowly.
- To minimize the risk of tolerance (reduced effectiveness), your doctor may recommend a nitrate-free interval (usually at night) – follow their instructions.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase dizziness.
- If you experience severe dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision, seek medical attention immediately.
- Inform your doctor if you are taking other medications, especially erectile dysfunction drugs (like sildenafil), as combining them can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Do not use this medicine to treat sudden chest pain; your doctor will prescribe a fast-acting sublingual nitroglycerin for that purpose.
Jan Aushadhi Price and Availability
Nitroglycerin Controlled Release Tablets 6.4 mg is available at Jan Aushadhi Kendra (generic medicine stores) under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). The MRP for a bottle of 30 tablets is ₹51.57, making it an affordable option compared to branded equivalents. The generic medicine has the same active ingredient and strength as the branded version, ensuring therapeutic equivalence at a fraction of the cost. You can find this medicine at your nearest Jan Aushadhi Kendra; check the official PMBJP website for store locations.
Safety Note
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication. Verify the composition, strength, and suitability of this medicine for your condition. Do not self-medicate or change your prescribed treatment without medical guidance. If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, seek immediate medical help.