Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (By Mouth)

Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (pen-ta-er-ITH-ri-tole tet-ra-NYE-trate)

Treats chest pain (angina). Belongs to a class of drugs called nitrates.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to PETN or other nitrates (such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide dinitrate). Tell your doctor if you are anemic.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Long Acting Capsule, Long Acting Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.
• Take with a glass of water on an empty stomach, before meals.
• Swallow each capsule or tablet whole (don't crush, chew, or open).

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible unless you are more than 2 hours late.
• If more than 2 hours late, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store in a closed container at room temperature, away from moisture and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking medicine for high blood pressure.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Talk to your doctor before taking if you have anemia, glaucoma, low blood pressure, or a recent heart attack, head injury, or stroke.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or lightheaded. If it does, avoid driving a car or operating machinery.
• To avoid dizziness from this medicine, get up slowly from a sitting or lying position.
• Daily headaches can mean that this medicine is working. Don't change your dose to avoid getting headaches unless you have talked with your doctor first. If you aren't taking the right dose, the medicine might not work.
• Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. You may need to take smaller and smaller doses before stopping completely. Ask your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Blurred vision
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
• Fainting or severe weakness
• Chest pain

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Facial flushing
• Fast heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Mild headache
• Nausea

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.