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Nitroglycerin Transdermal System (NITROGLYCERIN PATCH - TRANSDERMAL)

For angina.

Brand Name(s): Minitran, Nitro-Dur

Generic Name: Nitroglycerin

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Do not use the patch for more than 14 hours in a day.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.

This patch should not be cut.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Remove old patch before applying new one. Change the location of the new patch.

Do not use if the pouch containing the medicine is torn or damaged.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about locations on your body where this patch can be used.

Remove the plastic liner that protects the sticky side of the patch before applying to the skin.

Do not use soap, oils, or alcohol on the area of the skin before applying the patch. Use only water and gently pat dry. Do not rub the skin.

Apply the patch to a clean, dry, hairless area. Avoid skin that is red, scraped, or damaged.

Do not shave the hair. It irritates the skin. If needed, use scissors to cut the hair close to the skin.

Press the patch firmly for a few seconds to make sure it stays in place.

If the patch does not stick, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not cover the patch with bandage or tape unless instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

After removing the patch, fold it together and discard it out of reach of children and pets.

Do not dispose of a used patch by flushing it into the toilet.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands after touching patch.

Put the patch on a different area each time. Wait at least one week before using the same location again.

You can bathe, swim or shower while wearing the patch.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not take this medicine with other medicines called PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Levitra, Cialis). Your doctor will let you know if it is safe for you to do so.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Ask your doctor if patch should be removed before having an MRI scan to avoid serious burns.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • dizziness
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • headaches
  • low blood pressure

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • fainting
  • fast or irregular heart beats

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.