What is the role of nitroglycerin in emergency medicine?

Nitroglycerin plays a significant role in emergency medicine primarily as a medication used to relieve chest pain, particularly angina or chest pain associated with heart conditions. The mechanism by which nitroglycerin works involves the dilation of blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the heart muscle and reduces the heart's workload. This alleviation of chest pain provides immediate relief for patients experiencing symptoms of cardiac distress.

While nitroglycerin has effects that could indirectly influence heart rate and blood pressure due to its vasodilatory properties, its primary and most critical use in an emergency setting is for the alleviation of acute chest pain. By reducing the workload on the heart, it addresses the underlying issue that often leads to chest pain in patients with coronary artery disease or other cardiac pathologies.