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Friday, March 26, 2010

80% Of Nitro Prescriptions...

See:
F.D.A. Says Millions Got Unapproved Nitroglycerin-NYT

Check what's on your bus. It's not being recalled, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't take initiative. If it doesn't say Nitrostat by Pfizer, there's no guaranteeing that it's going to be as effective as it should be in the field.

And what I didn't know? Nitroglycerin prevents heart attacks in 3-4% of patients with chest pain. So that other 96-97%? It decreases blood pressure and strain on the heart, of course. That's what happens when you take a vasodilator. But how exactly did they get that number?

And how many states allow BLS to use Nitroglycerin?

Massachusetts BLS crews are allowed to give up to three Nitroglycerin with five minute intervals between each dose, so long as the patient's systolic remains above 100. ALS is activated if needed.

New York City BLS? We don't even carry Nitroglycerin. We can assist the patient with one tablet or spray of their own prescription, if ALS is enroute to us either while we're on scene or while we're transporting AND if the patient's systolic is above 120.

The confusion of being licensed in two states. :P

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