Which medication is a coronary vasodilator for chest pain, also called nitro?

• A. Nitroglycerin (NTG)
• B. Eliquis (Apixaban)
• C. Coumadin (Warfarin)
• D. Lisinopril

Answer: (A)

Nitroglycerin is a nitrate that acts as a coronary vasodilator used for chest pain (angina). It works by releasing nitric oxide in vascular smooth muscle, which increases cGMP and causes relaxation. This dilation lowers preload by venous pooling, reducing wall tension and myocardial oxygen demand, while also potentially improving blood flow to ischemic areas. Because of these effects, it provides rapid relief of angina symptoms and is often given sublingually for immediate relief or as a long-acting form for prevention. Common side effects include headache and lightheadedness from low blood pressure, and it should be used cautiously with certain other medications like PDE-5 inhibitors. The other medications listed serve anticoagulation or blood pressure/heart failure roles but do not act as acute coronary vasodilators for chest pain.