Drug Interaction Report

Using nitroglycerin together with chloroprocaine may cause methemoglobinemia, a rare condition that can lead to oxygen deprivation in tissues and vital organs due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Individuals may be more susceptible to developing methemoglobinemia during treatment with these medications if they are very young (especially neonates and infants) or have diseases of the heart or lungs, certain genetic predispositions, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Medical supervision may be necessary when medications that can cause methemoglobinemia are used together. Signs and symptoms of methemoglobinemia may occur immediately or hours after treatment. Patients or their caregivers should seek immediate medical attention if they develop gray discoloration of the skin, abnormal blood coloration, nausea, headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid or shallow breathing, a rapid heartbeat, palpitation, anxiety, or confusion. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Nitroglycerin and ethanol (alcohol) may have additive effects in lowering your blood pressure. You may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and/or changes in pulse or heart rate. These side effects are most likely to be seen at the beginning of treatment, following a dose increase, or when treatment is restarted after an interruption. Let your doctor know if you develop these symptoms and they do not go away after a few days or they become troublesome. Avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you, and use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.