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Sustained haemodynamic action of nitroglycerin ointment
British Heart Journal
|October 1, 1976
Summary
Nitroglycerin ointment effectively lowered blood pressure in patients with congestive heart failure for up to 5 hours. This topical vasodilator may offer a suitable option for long-term heart failure management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Intravenous vasodilators improve hemodynamics in congestive heart failure (CHF).
- Current intravenous and sublingual vasodilators are not ideal for chronic or ambulatory CHF treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of topical nitroglycerin ointment in managing CHF.
- To assess the hemodynamic effects of nitroglycerin ointment in CHF patients.
Main Methods:
- 11 patients with CHF received nitroglycerin ointment.
- Hemodynamic parameters including pulmonary wedge pressure, arterial pressures, systemic blood pressure, and heart rate were monitored for 2-5 hours post-application.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in pulmonary wedge and arterial pressures were observed within 15 minutes.
- Systemic systolic and diastolic blood pressures decreased significantly for up to 5 hours.
- Heart rate changes were also monitored.
Conclusions:
- Nitroglycerin ointment demonstrates significant and sustained hemodynamic improvements in CHF patients.
- Topical nitroglycerin may be a viable option for chronic vasodilator therapy in congestive heart failure.