Place sublingual tablets under your tongue or in your cheek; do not chew or swallow the tablet; the tablet should burn or "fizzle" under the tongue. Take the nitroglycerin before chest pain begins, when you anticipate that your activities or situation may precipitate an attack. Do not buy large quantities; this drug does not store well. Keep the drug in a dark, dry place, in a dark-colored glass bottle with a tight lid; do not combine with other drugs.
Do not chew or crush the timed-release preparations; take on an empty stomach.
Spread a thin layer of topical ointment on the skin using the applicator. Do not rub or massage the area. Cover with plastic wrap held in place with adhesive tape. Wash your hands after application. Keep the tube tightly closed. Rotate the sites frequently to prevent local irritation.
To use transdermal systems, you may need to shave an area for application. Apply to a slightly different area each day. Remove the old system before you apply a new one. Use care if changing brands; each system has a different concentration.
Place transmucosal tablets between the lip and gum or between the gum and cheek. Do not chew; try not to swallow.
Spray translingual spray directly onto oral mucous membranes; do not inhale. Use 5–10 min before activities that you anticipate will precipitate an attack.
You may experience these side effects: Dizziness, light-headedness (may be transient; change positions slowly); headache (lie down in a cool environment and rest; over-the-counter preparations may not help); flushing of the neck or face (transient).
Report blurred vision, persistent or severe headache, rash, more frequent or more severe angina attacks, fainting.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Tell any health care provider who is taking care of you that you are using this drug.