North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

How is Nitroglycerin to be administered according to the order?

1. Intravenously

2. Orally

3. Topically

4. Under the tongue

The correct answer is: Under the tongue

The administration of Nitroglycerin under the tongue, also known as sublingual administration, is specifically designed for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. This method allows the drug to bypass the gastrointestinal tract and enter circulation quickly, which is particularly important for the treatment of acute angina attacks. Nitroglycerin acts as a vasodilator, easing the strain on the heart and relieving chest pain. This route also corresponds with the pharmacokinetics of Nitroglycerin, which is formulated in a way that enhances its effect when placed under the tongue, directly allowing it to dissolve and enter the systemic circulation almost immediately. Other methods of administration, like oral, intravenous, or topical, may be used for different clinical situations, but they do not provide the same rapid onset of action that sublingual delivery does, making this option the preferred and most effective for quick relief of anginal symptoms.