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amyl nitrite
Amyl nitrite is a medication used for the relief of chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart. It comes as thin glass capsules so when you crush them, the vapors can be inhaled. Typically, it works within one minute after breathing it in.
Last reviewed on August 14, 2022
What is Amyl nitrite?
What is Amyl nitrite used for?
Chest pain (angina pectoris)
How Amyl nitrite works
Drug Facts
Common BrandsNo brands available
Drug ClassVasodilator
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
Get your GoodRx coupon
$14.34
GoodRx discount
$10.56
Frequently asked questions about Amyl nitrite
What is amyl nitrite?
Amyl nitrite is an inhaled medication used to treat chest pain known as angina pectoris (also called stable angina). This type of chest pain usually happens with physical activity or emotional stress, and is due to poor blood flow to the heart. Amyl nitrite comes as glass capsules that can be crushed between the fingers so the vapors can be inhaled through the nose.
How does amyl nitrite work?
Amyl nitrite is a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes and opens blood vessels. This causes more blood flow to the heart which relieves chest pain that's caused by blocked or narrowed blood vessels. After crushing the thin glass capsule, the vapors can be inhaled and absorbed through the lungs. This allows it to work within minutes to relieve chest pain.
What is the dose of amyl nitrite?
Each capsule contains 0.3 mL of amyl nitrite. The typical dose is to crush one capsule between your fingers, hold it under your nose, and inhale (breathe in) the vapors 2 to 6 times. The dose can be repeated in 3 to 5 minutes if needed. Make sure you're in a seated position before inhaling amyl nitrite because it can cause sudden dizziness.
What are some side effects of amyl nitrite?
Some side effects of amyl nitrite include mild headache, dizziness, and flushing (suddenly feeling warm). Other possible side effects include low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, restlessness, nausea, and vomiting. This isn't a complete list, so speak to your provider if you experience other side effects.
Who shouldn't use amyl nitrite?
Since amyl nitrite can cause harm to unborn babies, pregnant women shouldn't use it. If you have glaucoma, recent head trauma, or bleeding in your brain, amyl nitrite shouldn't be used because it can raise pressure in your eyes and head. Discuss your full medical history with your provider so they can help you decide if amyl nitrite is a good treatment option for your chest pain.
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Amyl nitrite dosage forms
The average cost for 30 ampules of 0.3ml of Amyl nitrite is $10.56 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 26.34% off the average retail price of $14.34.
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.3ml | 30 ampules | $10.56 | $0.35 |
Interactions between Amyl nitrite and other drugs
Amyl nitrite may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Amyl nitrite. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.
- Avanafil
- Riociguat
- Sildenafil
- Tadalafil
- Vardenafil
How much does Amyl nitrite cost?
Amyl nitrite (generic)
What are alternatives to Amyl nitrite?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Amyl nitrite. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
Used for:
Prevention and treatment of angina (chest pain due to tight blood vessels in the heart)
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