GTN Spray
Also known as: Glyceryl Trinitrate, Nitrolingual
What it's for
GTN spray relieves angina attacks quickly by relaxing blood vessels in your heart. Use it when you have chest pain or before activities that might cause angina.
Comes as: Sublingual spray or tablets
How to take it
- Spray 1 or 2 puffs under your tongue when you have chest pain.
- Sit down before using it as it can make you dizzy.
- Wait 5 minutes. If pain continues, use another spray.
- If pain persists after 3 sprays over 15 minutes, call 999.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Flushing
- Feeling sick
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Always carry your GTN spray with you
- Never use with medicines for erectile dysfunction (Viagra, Cialis, etc.)
- Sit down before using to prevent falls from dizziness
- Check expiry date - replace when expired
Get medical help urgently if…
- Your chest pain is not relieved after 3 sprays over 15 minutes - call 999 immediately
- You have new or worsening chest pain
- You feel very unwell with chest pain
- You have pain spreading to your arm, jaw, or back
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.