[Haemodynamic effects after application of nitroglycerin sublingually or as ointment in patients with left...

The haemodynamic effects of a 2% nitroglycerin ointment and of sublingual nitroglycerin in patients with left ventricular heart failure were investigated. The well-known pulmonary blood pressure and pulmonary wedge-pressure lowering effect were observed with both forms of administration. Differences exist between onset and duration of the haemodynamic effects. With sublingual administration of nitroglycerin the peak effect was seen after 5 minutes, whilst the pulmonary blood pressure rose again 30 minutes later. After application of nitroglycerin ointment a peak effect was seen 30 minutes later and the effects were sustained for 3 to 6 hours.