Nitroglycerin rectal ointment

What is this medicine?

NITROGLYCERIN (nye troe GLI ser in) is a type of vasodilator that can decrease pressure within the anus. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain caused by a tear in the skin lining the anal canal.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use exactly as directed. Cover a finger with plastic-wrap or surgical glove. Use the dosing guide on the medicine box to measure the dose. With the ointment on the covered finger, insert into anal canal up to the first finger joint. After application, throw away the finger covering. Wash hands after applying ointment.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dizziness

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• headache

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction like sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil

• riociguat

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• alteplase

• aspirin

• certain migraine medicines like ergotamine and dihydroergotamine (DHE)

• heparin

• medicines for high blood pressure

• other medicines used to treat angina

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Close tightly after each use. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• head injury, recent stroke, or bleeding in the brain

• heart disease

• low blood counts, like red cell counts

• low blood pressure

• migraines or recurrent headaches

• an unusual or allergic reaction to nitroglycerin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if you feel your medicine is no longer working.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.