What is the maximum numeric dose of nitroglycerin (in milligrams)?

What is the maximum numeric dose of nitroglycerin (in milligrams)?

• A. 0.4 mg
• B. 0.8 mg
• C. 1.2 mg
• D. 2.0 mg

Answer: (C)

Nitroglycerin is given in very small sublingual doses because it rapidly dilates blood vessels and reduces the workload on the heart to relieve chest pain. Each sublingual dose is 0.4 mg. In typical EMS practice, you can administer up to three doses in a row, at about five-minute intervals. That means the total maximum dose from one sequence is 0.4 mg + 0.4 mg + 0.4 mg, which equals 1.2 mg. This limit helps avoid significant drops in blood pressure and other adverse effects. So the highest total amount you would give in one sequence is 1.2 mg.

Nitroglycerin is given in very small sublingual doses because it rapidly dilates blood vessels and reduces the workload on the heart to relieve chest pain. Each sublingual dose is 0.4 mg. In typical EMS practice, you can administer up to three doses in a row, at about five-minute intervals. That means the total maximum dose from one sequence is 0.4 mg + 0.4 mg + 0.4 mg, which equals 1.2 mg. This limit helps avoid significant drops in blood pressure and other adverse effects. So the highest total amount you would give in one sequence is 1.2 mg.