Nitrates: What They Are, How They Work, and What You Need to Know

When your heart doesn’t get enough oxygen, nitrates, a class of medications that relax blood vessels to improve blood flow to the heart. Also known as nitroglycerin, they’re one of the oldest and most reliable tools for treating chest pain caused by heart disease. Unlike painkillers that just mask symptoms, nitrates fix the root problem: tight or blocked arteries. They work by releasing nitric oxide, which tells your blood vessels to widen. That means more oxygen-rich blood reaches your heart, and your heart doesn’t have to work as hard.

These drugs aren’t just for emergencies. You can take them as pills, sprays, patches, or even ointments—depending on whether you need quick relief or long-term control. nitroglycerin, the most common form of nitrate used for acute angina attacks, is often carried in small bottles as a spray or tablet under the tongue. If you feel that familiar squeezing pain in your chest, a quick dose can bring relief in under a minute. For ongoing prevention, long-acting nitrates, like isosorbide mononitrate or dinitrate, used daily to reduce the frequency of angina episodes, are common. They’re often paired with other heart meds like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to cover all bases.

Nitrates don’t work the same for everyone. Some people get headaches, dizziness, or low blood pressure—especially when starting out. That’s why timing matters. Taking them with food or lying down can help. And never mix them with erectile dysfunction drugs like Viagra or Cialis—this combo can drop your blood pressure to dangerous levels. If you’re on nitrates, your doctor will watch your blood pressure closely and adjust your other meds accordingly.

The posts below dive into how nitrates fit into real-world heart care. You’ll find comparisons with other angina treatments, tips for managing side effects, and how doctors decide when to use them over newer drugs. Whether you’re just starting treatment or have been on nitrates for years, these articles give you the clear, practical info you need to use them safely and effectively.