Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Nitroglycerin II

Nitroglycerin releases nitric oxide, which activates guanylate cyclase to increase cGMP levels, causing vasodilation of blood vessels.

Nitroglycerin releases nitric oxide, which activates guanylate cyclase to increase cGMP levels, causing vasodilation of blood vessels. Used for Acute angina pectoris, Chronic stable angina, Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Nitroglycerin is a prodrug that is bioconverted to nitric oxide (NO), a potent vasodilator. NO activates soluble guanylate cyclase, increasing intracellular cGMP concentrations, which leads to smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. This reduces preload and afterload on the heart, improving coronary blood flow and reducing myocardial oxygen demand.

Approved indications

• Acute angina pectoris
• Chronic stable angina
• Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

Common side effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Hypotension
• Tachycardia
• Flushing

Key clinical trials

• Avelumab in Chemo-resistant Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasias (PHASE2)
• : Vascular Function in Health and Disease (PHASE1)
• The Effect Of Nebulizied Nitroglycerin As An Adjuvant Therapy For Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension Of Newborns (NA)
• Toripalimab Plus Actinomycin-D As Fist-Line Treatment for GTN with FIGO Score 7 (PHASE2)
• Prevention of Radial Artery Occlusion After Transradial Access Using Nitroglycerin (PHASE3)
• Avelumab and Methotrexate in in Low-risk Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasias as First Line Treatment (PHASE1, PHASE2)
• Effect of TEE-guided Non-fluid Limited Combined With Dobutamine on Hepatic Venous Blood Flow Spectrum (EARLY_PHASE1)
• Upfront Premedication For Reduction of Microvascular Obstruction and No-reflow in Treating ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NA)

Primary sources

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