Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN) ointment, also known as nitroglycerin ointment, is primarily used for its vasodilating properties.
- Chronic Anal Fissures
- Healing Fissures: GTN ointment is commonly used to treat chronic anal fissures. It works by relaxing the smooth muscle of the internal anal sphincter, which decreases sphincter spasm and anal resting pressure, thus improving blood flow to the fissure site and promoting healing.
- Pain Relief: It can also provide symptomatic relief from pain and spasm associated with anal fissures.
- Raynaud’s Phenomenon
- GTN ointment may be used off-label for Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition characterized by spasm of the arteries in the extremities, particularly the fingers. It helps by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow.
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- In some cases, it’s used off-label to improve blood flow in patients with certain types of peripheral vascular disease.
- Application and Dosage
- The dosage and frequency of application depend on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to the therapy.
- Side Effects
- Headaches: One of the most common side effects, which may decrease with continued use.
- Low Blood Pressure: Can cause dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly.
- Tachycardia: An increase in heart rate as a reflex response to blood vessel dilation and blood pressure reduction.
- Precautions
- Tolerance Development: With continuous use, patients can develop tolerance to GTN, making it less effective. This can be managed by ensuring a nitrate-free period each day.
- Interaction with Other Medications: Particularly medications for erectile dysfunction (such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil), which can lead to severe hypotension.