ABCNews.com

How Does Nitroglycerin Work, When Is It Used, And Why Is It Placed Under The Tongue?

Question: How does nitroglycerin work, when is it used, and why is it placed under the tongue?

Answer: Nitroglycerin is used because it dilates the vessels and therefore lowers the blood pressure. But most importantly, it dilates the coronary arteries, which causes angina. So if you have heaviness in your chest, shortness of breath, putting the nitroglycerin tablet under your tongue has it absorbed rapidly, and if you get a relief within two to three minutes, that indicates that that's the right medicine for you.

on call plus Heart disease
ABC News Photo Illustration
Heart Disease And The Causes? Watch Video

Next: What Is A Defibrillator And How Is It Used In The Emergency Room?

Previous: During A Heart Attack, How Are Dangerous Heart Rhythms (Arrhythmia) Prevented And/Or Treated?

on Twitter, become a fan on Facebook
Commenting on this article is closed.
 
You Might Also Like...
Connect with Us
Social Tools Facebook Twitter Twitter Connect with Us YouTube RSS
ABC News Newsletters
 
Today in ABC News
1