During a dental visit, which self-administered medication is typically used to relieve an angina episode?

• A. Nitroglycerin
• B. Ibuprofen
• C. Amoxicillin
• D. Loratadine

Answer: (A)

Nitroglycerin works quickly because it dilates blood vessels, which lowers the heart’s oxygen demand and improves blood flow to the heart muscle. In a dental visit, a patient who has angina typically carries a nitroglycerin tablet or spray for self-administration at the onset of chest pain. Placing a tablet under the tongue or using the spray allows rapid absorption and relief within minutes. If pain continues, a second dose can be taken after about five minutes, and a third if needed, while monitoring symptoms and blood pressure; seek emergency care if there’s no relief after about 10 to 15 minutes or the pain worsens. Side effects like headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness, and potential hypotension, are important to watch. The other options do not address angina: ibuprofen is just a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, amoxicillin is an antibiotic, and loratadine is an antihistamine.