Nitroglycerin Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 25, 2024.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to nitroglycerin: buccal tablet extended release, intravenous solution, oral capsule extended release, rectal ointment, sublingual powder, sublingual spray, sublingual tablet, transdermal film extended release, transdermal ointment.

General adverse events

The most common side effect is headache.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Headache (up to 64%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness, lightheadedness, syncope, vertigo, drowsiness
• Rare (0.1% to 0.01%): Severe and prolonged headache
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Cerebral ischemia
• Frequency not reported: Faintness, somnolence^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypotension, angina increased, paradoxical bradycardia, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension, blood pressure decreased, facial flushing
• Uncommon (0.1 to 1%): Circulatory collapse
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Bradycardia, cyanosis, flushing, heart rate increase
• Frequency not reported: Crescendo angina, rebound hypertension, palpitations, hypertension, decreased arterial oxygen tension, severe arterial hypotension with bradycardia, transient flushing^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Nausea, vomiting
• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Dry mouth
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Heartburn, halitosis
• Frequency not reported: Abdominal pain, retching, lip and tongue swelling^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Dermatitis contact, erythema, pruritus, burning, irritation, eczema, urticaria
• Rare (0.01 to 0.1%): Allergic skin reactions, rash
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Exfoliative dermatitis, drug rash
• Frequency not reported: Cutaneous flushing, diaphoresis, angioedema
• Postmarketing reports: Rash generalized^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Asthenia, weakness
• Frequency not reported: Retrosternal discomfort^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylaxis
• Frequency not reported: Allergic reaction, anaphylactoid reaction^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Common (1% to 10%): Restlessness
• Frequency not reported: Apprehension^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Impairment of respiration
• Frequency not reported: Hypoxemia, dyspnea^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Methemoglobinemia^[Ref]

Ocular

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Blurred vision
• Frequency not reported: Increased ocular pressure^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Frequency not reported: Muscle twitching^[Ref]

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• How do you take GoNitro to treat an angina attack (chest pain)?
• What is the shelf life of nitroglycerin tablets?

Further information

Nitroglycerin side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer