Which of the following is listed as a nitroglycerin side effect?

• A. Headache, dizziness, hypotension, tachycardia, flushing, tingling under the tongue
• B. Nausea only
• C. Cough and wheeze
• D. Insomnia

Answer: (C)

Nitroglycerin’s side effects come from its rapid venodilation, which reduces preload and causes reflex changes. The classic adverse effects are headache from cerebral vasodilation, dizziness or lightheadedness, flushing, and a drop in blood pressure with possible reflex tachycardia. Sub lingual forms often produce a transient tingling under the tongue. Cough and wheeze are not typical nitroglycerin side effects, and insomnia is not characteristic. The option that lists headache, dizziness, hypotension, tachycardia, flushing, and tingling under the tongue reflects the well-known nitroglycerin adverse effect profile.