A patient has been instructed to use sublingual nitroglycerin for chest pain. What is the maximum number of tablets that may be used at 3-minute intervals before seeking care?

• A. Two tablets
• B. Five tablets
• C. Three tablets
• D. Four tablets

Answer: (B)

Sublingual nitroglycerin works quickly to relieve chest pain by dilating blood vessels and reducing the heart’s workload, so the dosing is designed to provide rapid relief in short steps. The standard approach is to take one tablet at the onset of pain and, if the pain continues, repeat at short intervals. You should not take more than three tablets in total before seeking medical care. If the pain persists after the third dose, call emergency services immediately. This plan helps balance timely relief with safety, since nitroglycerin can cause significant drops in blood pressure and dizziness.