Nitro-Dur Patch

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Nitro-Dur patches are a form of nitroglycerin medication used primarily for the prevention and treatment of angina pectoris, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to coronary heart disease. The patch provides a steady release of nitroglycerin through the skin, helping to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart. Proper application and adherence to the medication guidelines are crucial for its effectiveness and minimizing side effects. Here is a counseling guide for patients prescribed Nitro-Dur patches:

Application Instructions

1. Clean and Dry Skin: Choose a clean, dry area of skin for the patch application. The chest is a common site, but you can also apply the patch to the back, upper arm, or thigh. Avoid areas with cuts, rashes, or irritation.
2. Rotate Sites: To prevent skin irritation, apply each new patch to a different site from the previous one.
3. Apply Firmly: Remove the protective liner from the patch and press it firmly onto the skin with the palm of your hand for about 10 seconds, ensuring good contact, especially around the edges.
4. Wash Hands: After applying or removing the patch, wash your hands thoroughly to remove any medication that might be on them.

Usage Tips

• Timing: Follow your doctor’s instructions on how often to change the patch. It’s usually applied once a day.
• Continuous Therapy: If you are advised to wear the patch continuously, you might be told to remove the patch for a certain period (usually for 12 hours each day, often during nighttime) to reduce the risk of developing tolerance to the medication.
• Disposal: Fold used patches in half with the sticky sides together and dispose of them safely, out of reach of children and pets.

Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, light-headedness, or skin irritation at the patch site. Most side effects diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. Severe headaches can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, but consult your doctor for persistent or severe side effects.

Precautions

• Avoid Heat: Heat can increase the amount of medication absorbed through your skin, potentially leading to overdose. Avoid hot baths, saunas, and direct sunlight on the patch.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: The medication can cause dizziness, so be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Alcohol and Medication Interactions: Alcohol and certain medications can increase the likelihood of low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting. Discuss with your doctor any potential interactions with Nitro-Dur.

Contraindications

Patients with certain conditions should not use Nitro-Dur, including those with severe anemia, increased intracranial pressure, or those using certain erectile dysfunction drugs due to the risk of severe hypotension.