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Nitrates for Coronary Artery Disease
How It Works
Nitrates open (dilate) the arteries to the heart. This increases blood flow to the heart, relieving Reference angina Opens New Window symptoms such as chest pain or pressure.
Nitrates also dilate veins throughout the body so that they can hold more blood. This reduces the amount of blood going back to the heart, reducing the heart's workload.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 14, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Reference Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology |
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