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Nitroglycerin lingual spray: clinical efficacy and dose-response relation

J O Parker, K A Vankoughnett, B Farrell

    The American Journal of Cardiology
    |January 1, 1986
    PubMed

    Insights

    Nitroglycerin (GTN) lingual spray effectively prevents angina episodes, with higher doses showing greater benefits. This spray offers a promising option for managing exercise-induced angina, similar to sublingual GTN.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Exercise-induced angina pectoris is a common condition.
    • Nitroglycerin is a standard treatment for angina.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the efficacy and dose-response of nitroglycerin (GTN) lingual spray.
    • To compare GTN lingual spray with placebo and sublingual GTN.

    Main Methods:

    • Twenty patients with stable, exercise-induced angina were given varying doses of GTN lingual spray (0.2, 0.4, 0.8 mg).
    • Hemodynamic effects and exercise tolerance were measured.
    • Comparisons were made with placebo and 0.4 mg sublingual GTN.

    Main Results:

    • GTN lingual spray demonstrated a dose-response relationship for heart rate.
    • Exercise duration until angina onset and moderate angina was prolonged by GTN spray in a dose-dependent manner.
    • GTN lingual spray (0.4 and 0.8 mg) showed effects comparable to 0.4 mg sublingual GTN.

    Conclusions:

    • Nitroglycerin lingual spray is effective for angina prophylaxis and treatment.
    • Doses of 0.4 or 0.8 mg of GTN lingual spray appear most effective.
    • GTN lingual spray offers a viable alternative to sublingual nitroglycerin for angina management.

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