Nitro-Dur: A Comprehensive Guide Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator medication used to prevent angina (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease. Nitro-Dur is one formulation of nitroglycerin that is administered via skin patch. In this article, we will cover the uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options of Nitro-Dur. Uses: Nitro-Dur is used to prevent and treat angina. Angina is chest pain caused by a decrease in blood flow to the heart. Nitroglycerin relaxes the smooth muscle in the walls of blood vessels, causing them to widen and thus increasing blood flow. When Nitro-Dur is applied as a skin patch, it gradually releases nitroglycerin into the bloodstream over the course of 24 hours. This slow release helps prevent blood vessels from constricting and reduces the frequency and severity of angina attacks. Dosage: The recommended starting dose of Nitro-Dur is usually one patch, applied once a day. The patch should be applied to clean, dry skin on the chest, upper arm, or outer thigh. The patch should be left on for 12 to 14 hours, and then removed for 10 to 12 hours, before applying a new patch. The dosage and application site may be adjusted by a healthcare provider based on individual needs. Demographic: Nitro-Dur is used primarily in adults with angina who are not adequately controlled with other medications or lifestyle changes. Nitro-Dur is not recommended for use in children or adolescents. Side Effects: Nitro-Dur can cause several side effects, including headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, flushing, and a burning or itching sensation where the patch is applied. These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few hours of removing the patch. In rare cases, Nitro-Dur can cause more serious side effects, such as a rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or an allergic reaction. Anyone experiencing these more serious side effects should seek immediate medical attention. Interactions: Nitro-Dur can interact with other medications, including blood pressure medications, erectile dysfunction medications, and other nitrate medications. These interactions can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and should be avoided. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken before starting Nitro-Dur. Generic Options: Nitro-Dur is a brand name medication, but generic options are available under the names Nitroglycerin and Transderm-Nitro. These medications have the same active ingredient (nitroglycerin), as Nitro-Dur and work in the same way by releasing nitroglycerin into the bloodstream through a skin patch. In conclusion, Nitro-Dur is a medication used to treat angina by improving blood flow to the heart. Nitro-Dur should be applied once a day to clean, dry skin on the chest, upper arm, or outer thigh. Mild side effects are common, but more serious side effects are rare. Nitro-Dur can interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider before starting this medication. Generic options are available under the names Nitroglycerin and Transderm-Nitro.