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Nitro-Dur Side Effects
While most people do not experience any problems while using Nitro-Dur, side effects are still possible. Some of the most common reactions can include headaches, lightheadedness, and fainting. Although most side effects of the patch do not require medical attention, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, bluish discoloration of the skin, or other potentially serious problems.
Just like any medicine, Nitro-Dur® (nitroglycerin patch) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Nitro-Dur. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Nitro-Dur has been studied extensively in clinical trials. In these studies, one group of people received Nitro-Dur, while another group was given a placebo (a patch that does not contain any active ingredients). As a result, it was possible to see what side effects occurred, how often they appeared, and how they compared to the placebo.
In clinical trials, the most reactions to Nitro-Dur included:
- Headaches -- in up to 63 percent of people
- Lightheadedness -- up to 6 percent
- Low blood pressure (hypotension) or fainting -- up to 4 percent.
With most nitroglycerin products, including Nitro-Dur, the most notable side effect is headaches. These headaches can be quite severe and can happen every time a person uses the drug. Headaches are most commonly seen with a higher Nitro-Dur dosage.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD