Effect of nitroglycerin on the cardiovascular system
Dubiel, J.P.
Folia Medica Cracoviensia 30(1-2): 3-12
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0015-5616 PMID: 2518364 Document Number: 338344
Nitrates are the most frequent agents used in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. In recent years nitrates have aroused a great interest; new pharmacological and clinical studies concern the mechanism by which nitroglycerin acts on the cell, forms of drugs prepared for intravenous, transdermal or oral (spray) routes of administration as well as sustained release preparations. The complexity of mechanisms of nitroglycerin action makes that nitrates are safe drugs and their action does not depend on the functional state of the myocardium. End-effects i.e. prevention of angina or relief of pain result from nitroglycerin action on the smooth muscles of the peripheral vessels and coronary arteries, on the coronary blood flow and left ventricle as well as on general hemodynamic indices. The role of specific sites of action of nitroglycerin changes depending on various factors and angina--inducing hemodynamic disorders. The phenomenon of nitrate tolerance investigated in recent years requires further studies but the results of the available trials are of considerable practical value.