How should EMS personnel store nitroglycerin tablets?

• A. In the original bottle, away from light, and replace after expiration; keep sealed.
• B. In a pill box with other medications.
• C. In the car glove compartment.
• D. Stored in the refrigerator.

Answer: (A)

Nitroglycerin tablets are highly sensitive to light, heat, and moisture, so they must be kept in a way that protects potency. The best practice is to store them in their original amber bottle with the cap kept sealed and to replace them after the expiration date. This packaging is designed to shield the drug from light and moisture and to warn you when the medication is no longer reliable.

Other storage methods expose the tablets to conditions that quickly degrade potency. A pill box with other meds can introduce moisture and more light exposure and makes it easy to lose track of expiration. Keeping the bottle in the car glove compartment subjects the tablets to heat and temperature fluctuations that accelerate deterioration. Refrigeration is not recommended for sublingual nitroglycerin tablets because condensation and repeated temperature changes can damage them and reduce effectiveness.