Nitroglycerin, the guardian of heart health, is not only an emergency “life-saving straw” for myocardial infarction, but also a warm comfort for angina patients. It can rapidly dilate coronary arteries through a simple sublingual administration, delivering urgently needed oxygen and blood to myocardial cells, effectively curbing the deterioration of myocardial infarction, and buying valuable treatment time for patients.
However, when using this valuable medication, it is important to be cautious of the following common misconceptions to avoid backfire, worsening the condition, and even endangering life safety:
Misconception 1: Avoiding illness and seeking medical treatment, and carrying the burden of illness
Some patients firmly believe that “medicine is three parts toxic” and hold an overly cautious attitude towards medication, treating nitroglycerin as a “tiger” and refusing to take it during angina attacks due to concerns about its side effects. Little did they know that although nitroglycerin may have mild side effects such as headaches, they are within a controllable range and can usually be relieved or disappear after multiple uses. In the face of angina, do not force yourself, timely medication is the wise move.
Misconception 2: Misleading advertising and improper drug selection
Some patients are influenced by advertisements and prefer drugs such as quick acting heart saving pills and Danshen dripping pills as the first choice for emergency treatment of angina pectoris, while ignoring the position of nitroglycerin as the preferred emergency medicine. Indeed, the above-mentioned drugs can also alleviate symptoms, but nitroglycerin is irreplaceable in terms of emergency response efficiency.
Misconception 3: Insufficient dosage, delayed timing
When angina attacks, nitroglycerin should be used quickly and sufficiently to alleviate symptoms in the shortest possible time. Some patients may take insufficient or delayed doses, which may not effectively control their condition and instead exacerbate the risk. Remember, if there is no effect within 5 minutes, take it again. If it fails three times, seek medical attention immediately.
Misconception 4: Improper medication methods can affect effectiveness
Nitroglycerin should be taken sublingually, avoiding administration with water to ensure rapid absorption and optimal therapeutic effect. At the same time, when taking medication, one should choose a sitting position to avoid increasing the burden on the heart in a supine position and to prevent possible orthostatic hypotension while standing.
Misconception 5: Misunderstanding hypotension as poisoning
The hypotensive effect of nitroglycerin may cause some patients to experience hypotensive symptoms such as dizziness, which is a normal reaction and not a sign of toxicity. Lying flat for a moment can relieve symptoms without excessive panic.
Misconception 6: Improper storage leads to loss of medicinal efficacy
Nitroglycerin is easily affected by temperature, humidity, and light, and its shelf life is shortened to 3 to 6 months after opening. Therefore, it should be properly stored in a cool place, away from light, sealed, and kept away from close fitting clothing to prevent the drug from becoming ineffective due to accelerated body temperature. When using, the lid should be quickly opened, medication should be taken, and tightened to reduce the contact time between the medication and air.
In short, nitroglycerin is a valuable weapon for cardiac emergency treatment, but its maximum effectiveness can only be achieved when used correctly. Understand and avoid the above misconceptions, and make this’ life-saving medicine ‘truly a solid shield for safeguarding heart health.
