Basic Information
- Habit forming? No
- Prescription needed? Yes
- Available as generic? Yes
- Drug class: Coronary vasodilator
Uses
Treats angina pectoris attacks. Note: Don't use amyl nitrite
expecting a "high" or as an aphrodisiac. Serious, harmful
side effects may occur when amyl nitrate is abused.
Dosage & Usage Information
How to take:
Cover the glass capsule with a protective cloth and then crush
between your fingers. Inhale 1 to 6 times. Remain seated while
you inhale. Repeat dose in 5 minutes if needed.
When to take:
Only when chest pain occurs. If relief doesn't occur with
first capsule within 5 minutes, crush another. If inhaling
2 capsules in 10 minutes doesn't bring relief, go to emergency
room.
If you forget a dose:
No set dosage schedule. Use only when needed.
What drug does:
Relaxes coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.
Time lapse before drug works:
1 to 5 minutes.
Don't take with:
Any other medicine without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Overdose
SYMPTOMS:
Blue lips, fingernails; dizziness, fainting, head pressure,
shortness of breath, fast heartbeat.
WHAT TO DO:
- Dial 911 (emergency) or O (operator) for an ambulance
or medical help. Then give first aid immediately.
- See EMERGENCY Information.
Possible Adverse Reactions or Side Effects
Life-threatening:
In case of overdose, see Overdose section.
Common:
Continuing fast heartbeat, pulse; headache, flushed face,
restlessness.
Infrequent:
Dizziness, lightheadedness.
Rare:
Continuing dizziness, skin rash.
Warnings & Precautions
Don't take if:
You have had a recent head injury.
Before you start, consult your doctor:
- If you are anemic.
- If you have glaucoma.
- If you have overactive thyroid.
- If you have had a recent myocardial infarction.
Over age 60:
Adverse reactions and side effects may be more frequent and
severe than in younger persons. You may need smaller doses
for shorter periods of time.
Pregnancy:
Risk to unborn child outweighs drug benefits. Don't use.
Breast-feeding:
No documented problems. Best to avoid.
Infants & children:
Effect not documented. Consult your pediatrician.
Prolonged use:
Request follow-up studies to check liver function, kidney
function, blood counts, platelet counts, heart function and
blood pressure.
Skin & sunlight:
No problems expected.
Driving, piloting or hazardous work:
Avoid if you feel confused, drowsy or dizzy.
Discontinuing:
None expected.
Others:
- Advise any doctor or dentist whom you consult that you
take this medicine.
- May affect results in some medical tests.
Possible Interaction with Other Drugs
