Nitroglycerin Transdermal Patch – is a patch that is applied to prevent angina in people suffering from a specific heart issue called coronary artery disease or CAD.
How It Works
The patch is put on the skin, which allows it to release medicines named nitrates. Nitrates are able to go through the skin to the blood vessels. In the blood vessels, nitrates reduce the workload for the heart by relaxing the blood vessels, which causes them to widen.
Disease
Angina occurs when there is not enough blood coming to the heart. Since the heart itself is a muscle, which needs oxygen through the blood, the lack of blood flow to the heart causes ischemia. It is common among people with coronary artery disease, which is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries, where blood vessels carrying out blood from the heart are narrowed.
Side Effects
Common side effects include headache, nausea, and vomiting. In the case of headaches, try resting in a quiet and dark room with compresses applied to the head. For nausea and vomiting, drink plenty of cold water and avoid fried foods.
Adverse side effects include skin irritation, blurred vision, and low blood pressure. In order to manage these side effects, focus on resting, using a cold, wet cloth on the irritated area, and avoiding excessive movements.
Important Medication-Related Information
- Patch should be worn for 12-14 hours per day.
- There should be a gap between path removal and the next patch use comprised of 10-12 hours per day.
- Alcohol consumption should be avoided, and headaches are common.
Non-Pharmacologic Strategies
- It is important to consider adhering to a low-fat diet when using a nitroglycerin transdermal patch. Such a diet limits the number of unhealthy fats consumed, which helps the cardiovascular system to slow the progression of plaque buildup. Try to eat whole grains, low-fat protein, such as fish or skinless chicken, and plenty of vegetables and fruits.
- Reducing stressful and physically demanding tasks. Since the heart is already overloaded by the condition, it is important to avoid or reduce the number of strenuous activities. Try to organize your life and work around this lifestyle modification.
- Stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Smoking is a major risk factor that increases the chances of lung cancer and complications in the cardiovascular system.
References
Satoskar, R. S., Rege, N. N., Tripathi, R. K., & Kamat, S. K. (2021). Pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics (26th ed.). Elsevier.
Vallerand, A, H., & Sanoski, C. A. (2020). Davis’s drug guide for nurses (17th ed.). F.A. Davis Company.
Waard, D., Fagan, A., Minnaar, C., & Horne, D. (2021). Management of patients after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery: A guide for primary care practitioners. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 193(19), 689-694. Web.