• Reference Number: HEY1232/2024
• Departments: Cardiology, Pharmacy
• Last Updated: 31 May 2024

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English

Introduction

This leaflet has been produced to give you general information. Most of your questions should be answered by this leaflet. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and the healthcare team but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have any concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.

What is GTN spray and how does it work?

GTN is a spray used to relieve angina (chest pain). When sprayed under the tongue, it relaxes and widens blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the heart.

How do I use the medicine

You should carry your GTN spray with you at all times, and do not hesitate to use it if you develop chest pain or discomfort. Spray 1 or 2 puffs under your tongue and follow the instructions overleaf.

Are there any side effects?

GTN also widens the blood vessels that go to the brain, which can commonly cause headaches. Although unpleasant, this is not anything to worry about, and can be relieved by taking paracetamol. GTN can also cause a drop in blood pressure, so use the spray while sitting down to avoid the risk of dizziness and fainting.

These side effects happen more often with the first few doses and are likely to become less of a problem over time. If these side effects continue to be a problem, please speak to your GP.

Is there anything else I need to know?

You should continue to carry around your GTN spray with you unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Always read the leaflet that comes with your GTN spray and see your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. Alternatively, you can contact your cardiac rehabilitation team (your team is the area in which your GP is located):

• Hull and East Riding                        tel: 01482 247111
• Grimsby                                               tel: 03033 304570
• Scunthorpe                                         tel: 03033 302895
• York and Scarborough                     tel: 01904 725821

Regularly check the expiry date of your GTN spray, and ensure you get a new prescription from your GP before this has passed. GTN sprays can also be purchased from a pharmacy without a prescription if needed.

Please report to your GP if you have an increase in your chest pain symptoms (e.g. if you are using your GTN spray more than three times a week) or if they start to occur at rest.

GTN is also useful for preventing “predictable” angina symptoms. This means you can use it before undertaking an activity you know will bring on your angina. You should only use it this way if advised by your doctor.

This leaflet has been produced by the Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and is available as a download:

Download the “Using Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN) spray to treat your chest pain” leaflet