NITRO DUR, 0.2MG/HR, PATCH

Common uses

This medication is a vasodilator (it dilates the blood vessels). Typically, it is used to relieve angina (chest pain due to a heart condition).

How to use this medication

This medication is contained in a patch that is to be applied to your skin. It must be placed on a hairless area, preferably on the abdomen or buttocks.

Avoid touching the sticky side when handling the patch. To apply: thoroughly clean and dry the area, then apply the patch and press firmly. When you change patches, apply the new one at a different location. Wait a week before applying a patch at the same location. Patches are waterproof; you may swim or take a shower. If your patch comes off during the day, reapply it or replace it with a new one.

The patch may cause itching or a rash where it has been applied. If such a reaction persists, consult your pharmacist.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. It is not advisable to stop using this product suddenly, particularly if you have been on it for several weeks. If you are considering stopping the medication, talk to your pharmacist first.

It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand. Consuming alcohol may intensify the toxicity of this product. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption during treatment.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause headaches;
• it may cause redness of the face;
• it may cause palpitations (rapid and strong heart beat);
• it may lower your blood pressure, which could cause weakness and/or dizziness.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Do not allow it to freeze. There is enough drug left in a used patch to be harmful to children. Before you dispose of a patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together. Make sure that children will not be able to manipulate it.

Additional information

Blood donation is usually refused during this treatment.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.