Why is nitroglycerin administered to patients?

Nitroglycerin is primarily administered to relieve chest pain caused by angina pectoris. Angina pectoris typically arises from the heart not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood, often due to coronary artery disease. Nitroglycerin works by dilating blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the heart and can help alleviate the chest pain that results from this oxygen deficiency.

By relaxing the smooth muscles in the blood vessel walls, nitroglycerin reduces the workload on the heart and decreases myocardial oxygen demand. This action provides symptomatic relief for patients experiencing anginal attacks, making it an essential medication in the management of acute coronary conditions.

While nitroglycerin does have effects on blood pressure because of its vasodilatory properties, its primary indication in emergencies is the treatment of chest pain related to angina, rather than management of blood pressure or inflammation.