Transiderm-Nitro

What is it?

An antianginal preparation available as skin patches in 2 strengths delivering 5mg or 10mg of glyceryl trinitrate per 24 hours.

Medical Uses

Prevention of angina, prevention of phlebitis and prevention of leakage from vein during intravenous cannulation procedures which are expected to last at least 2 days.

Dosage

Adults, angina, start with 5mg patch and increase dose to 2x10mg patches, if necessary. Patches may be used continuously or intermittently, with a break of 8 to 12 hours. Patch should be applied to a clean area of skin, without hair, on the side of the chest and a new site selected when the patch is changed (every 24 hours if use is continuous). Prevention of phlebitis and leakage, apply lx5mg patch distal to site at time of venepuncture and change every 3 to 4 days, using a fresh site.

Special Care

Pregnancy, oxygen deficiency in arterial blood circulation, heart failure, perfusion/ventilation imblance, heart attack. Another anti- anginal preparation may be needed during period without patch. When withdrawing treatment, replace with gradually lessening doses of long-acting nitrates taken by mouth.

Avoid Use

Children, obstruction of heart, serious low blood pressure, raised pressure within skull.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

B-bloekers, anti- hypertensives, aspirin, calcium antagonists, TCADs, dihydroergotamine, alcohol, sildenafil, NSAIDs, vasodilators, ACE inhibitors, antipsychotics, diuretics.