GTN Sorbitrate CR 2.6 Tablet

Description

GTN Sorbitrate CR 2.6 Tablet is a controlled-release formulation of Nitroglycerin (2.6mg), a nitrate medicine widely used in the management and prevention of angina pectoris (chest pain caused by coronary artery disease). It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels (vasodilation), which reduces the workload on the heart and improves oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

The controlled-release (CR) formulation ensures a gradual and sustained release of Nitroglycerin, providing prolonged relief and prevention from angina attacks compared to immediate-release tablets.

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Uses:

• Prevention and long-term management of angina pectoris due to coronary artery disease.

• Helps reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain episodes.

• May be prescribed in some cases of chronic stable angina.

• Improves exercise tolerance in patients with ischemic heart disease.

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Dosage & Administration:

• Dose should be taken exactly as prescribed by the physician.

• Usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food.

• Tablets should be swallowed whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the controlled-release form.

• Not intended for immediate relief of acute angina attacks (sublingual nitroglycerin is used for emergencies).

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Mechanism of Action:

• Nitroglycerin gets converted to nitric oxide (NO) in the body.

• NO activates guanylate cyclase, increasing cyclic GMP (cGMP) in vascular smooth muscle.

• This leads to relaxation of smooth muscle → dilation of veins and arteries.

• Venous dilation reduces preload (blood returning to the heart).

• Arterial dilation reduces afterload (resistance the heart pumps against).

• Overall effect: reduced myocardial oxygen demand and increased oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, thereby preventing angina.

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Side Effects:

• Common: Headache, dizziness, flushing, weakness, low blood pressure (hypotension).

• Less common: Palpitations, nausea, fainting, blurred vision.

• Rare but serious: Severe hypotension, methemoglobinemia, tolerance (reduced effect with prolonged use).

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Precautions:

• Not to be used for sudden acute angina attacks.

• Should not be stopped abruptly; dose tapering is necessary.

• Use cautiously in patients with low blood pressure, severe anemia, glaucoma, or head injury.

• Avoid concomitant use with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil) as it may cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

• Alcohol may enhance blood pressure-lowering effects—avoid excessive intake.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use only under medical supervision.

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Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Keep tightly closed to protect from moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children.