How does amyl nitrite work?

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

Pharmacy

Amyl nitrite relaxes the smooth muscle that makes up your arteries and veins to allow increases in the flow of blood and oxygen to your heart. The chest pain that you feel during angina is caused by reduced blood flow to your heart. This happens if your heart does not get enough oxygen.

Continue Learning about Nitrate

Audrey K. Chun, MD

Nitrate medications decrease angina pain and shortness of breath by relaxing blood vessels, enab...

SCAI

Nitrates are medications that relieve chest pain (angina) by dilating the blood vessel allowing more...

Donna Hill Howes, RN

Nitrate therapy relaxes the coronary arteries. This improves blood flow and relieves angina. Nitrogl...

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD

Do not use nitrates if you are taking medications to treat erectile dysfunction, such as tadalaf...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.