Introduction

Dextrose (DEX-trose), Nitroglycerin (nye-troe-GLIS-er-in)

Treats or prevents chest pain (angina) that does not respond to oral nitroglycerin. Also used to lower blood pressure during surgery. This medicine is a nitrate.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to nitroglycerin, nitrates, or similar medicines (such as Isordil®, Sorbitrate®, or Monoket®). Do not use this medicine if you are also using Viagra®, Levitra®, or Cialis®.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using heparin, any other vasodilator (such as papaverine, hydralazine), heart or blood pressure medicine (such as diltiazem, enalapril, lisinopril, nifedipine, verapamil, Accupril®, Adalat®, Calan®, Cardizem®, Cartia®, Lotrel®, Lotensin®, Monopril®, Prinivil®, Procardia®, Tiazac®, Vasotec®, Zestril®), or other nitrates (such as isosorbide).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have a history of diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are allergic to corn or corn products.
• Medicines that treat chest pain sometimes cause headaches. These headaches are a sign that the medicine is working. If the pain is severe, talk with your doctor.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain or uneven heartbeat.
• Severe nausea or vomiting.
• Redness, pain, or swelling where the IV is given.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea.
• Dizziness, or light-headedness.
• Headache.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088