Glycolic acid

Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN), also known as Nitroglycerin, is a chemical compound used primarily for the treatment of heart disease and angina. It is a potent vasodilator, expanding blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart.

Chemical Structure

Glyceryl Trinitrate is an organic nitrate compound with the chemical formula C3H5N3O9. It is a dense, colorless, oily, explosive liquid. It is produced by nitrating glycerol with white fuming nitric acid under conditions appropriate to the formation of the nitric acid ester.

Medical Uses

Glyceryl Trinitrate is used medically as a vasodilator to treat heart conditions such as angina and chronic heart failure. It works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the walls of the blood vessels, particularly the large arteries and veins and the coronary arteries. This leads to widening of these blood vessels (vasodilation) which in turn reduces the workload of the heart.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Glyceryl Trinitrate include headache, dizziness, and low blood pressure. More serious side effects may include an irregular heartbeat. Use is not recommended in those with severe head injuries as it can increase intracranial pressure.

History

Glyceryl Trinitrate was discovered by Ascanio Sobrero in 1847, but it was Alfred Nobel who, in 1867, discovered that it could be used as a safe explosive. Nobel later established the Nobel Prizes with the wealth he accumulated from his invention.

See Also

• Nitroglycerin (drug)
• Heart disease
• Angina
• Vasodilator