Who Can Prescribe Nitroglycerin?

Nitroglycerin is a prescription nitrate medication used primarily to treat and prevent angina (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease. Unlike controlled substances that require specialized licenses, Nitroglycerin can be prescribed by any licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.

That said, certain specialists are more likely to prescribe and manage Nitroglycerin therapy:

• Cardiologists — The most common prescribers, especially for patients with diagnosed coronary artery disease or chronic angina
• Internal Medicine doctors — Often manage Nitroglycerin prescriptions as part of overall cardiovascular care
• Family Medicine physicians — Frequently prescribe Nitroglycerin for patients with stable angina
• Emergency Medicine doctors — May prescribe Nitroglycerin during ER visits for acute chest pain
• Gastroenterologists — Prescribe Rectiv (Nitroglycerin ointment) for chronic anal fissures

If you already have a diagnosis of angina or coronary artery disease, your primary care doctor can typically prescribe Nitroglycerin without referring you to a specialist.

How to Find a Doctor Who Prescribes Nitroglycerin Near You

Finding the right provider depends on your situation. Here are the most effective approaches for 2026:

1. Start With Your Primary Care Provider

If you have a primary care doctor, this is usually the fastest route. They can evaluate your symptoms, order necessary tests (like an EKG or stress test), and prescribe Nitroglycerin if appropriate. If your condition requires specialist management, they can refer you to a cardiologist.

2. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Most insurance companies maintain searchable online directories of in-network providers. Log into your insurance portal and search for cardiologists or internal medicine doctors near your zip code. This ensures you'll get the best coverage for your visit.

3. Search Hospital and Health System Websites

Major health systems like Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic network, and regional hospital systems have "Find a Doctor" tools. You can filter by specialty (cardiology), location, and whether they're accepting new patients.

4. Try Telehealth for Convenience

Telehealth has expanded significantly, and many providers can now evaluate and prescribe Nitroglycerin remotely — especially if you have an existing diagnosis and need a refill or dosage adjustment. Popular telehealth platforms connect you with licensed physicians who can send prescriptions directly to your pharmacy.

Important note: If you're experiencing new or worsening chest pain, seek in-person evaluation. Telehealth is best for established patients or those needing prescription renewals.

5. Check Community Health Centers

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer care on a sliding-fee scale based on income. Find one near you at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov. These centers often have internal medicine providers who can prescribe Nitroglycerin.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you visit a doctor about Nitroglycerin, be prepared to discuss:

• Your history of chest pain — when it started, what triggers it, how long episodes last
• Current medications, especially potential drug interactions with Nitroglycerin
• Whether you take any PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil/Viagra, tadalafil/Cialis) — these are contraindicated with Nitroglycerin
• Prior cardiac testing (EKG, stress test, cardiac catheterization)
• Any history of low blood pressure, severe anemia, or fainting

Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam, review or order an EKG, and may order additional cardiac testing before prescribing Nitroglycerin.

Which Form of Nitroglycerin Will Your Doctor Prescribe?

Nitroglycerin comes in several formulations, and your doctor will choose based on your needs. To learn more about all available forms, read our guide on what Nitroglycerin is and how it's used.

• Sublingual tablets (Nitrostat) — 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, or 0.6 mg tablets placed under the tongue for acute angina attacks
• Translingual spray (Nitrolingual, Nitromist) — Sprayed onto or under the tongue for quick relief
• Transdermal patches (Nitro-Dur, Minitran) — Applied to skin for long-term angina prevention
• Sustained-release capsules — Oral capsules for ongoing prevention

What If You Can't Get an Appointment Quickly?

If you're having trouble getting a timely appointment:

• Urgent care clinics can sometimes provide short-term Nitroglycerin prescriptions, though they'll likely refer you for follow-up cardiology care
• Telehealth services often have same-day or next-day availability
• Your pharmacist may be able to provide an emergency supply if you've run out and can't reach your doctor

If you're experiencing active chest pain that doesn't resolve, call 911 immediately. Don't wait for an appointment.

Filling Your Nitroglycerin Prescription

Once you have your prescription, the next step is finding a pharmacy with Nitroglycerin in stock. Due to ongoing shortage issues, some pharmacies may not have it immediately available. Check out our guide on how to check if a pharmacy has Nitroglycerin in stock to save time.

You can also save money on your Nitroglycerin prescription with discount cards and patient assistance programs.

Understanding Your Nitroglycerin Prescription

Before starting Nitroglycerin, make sure you understand how Nitroglycerin works and what side effects to watch for. The most common side effect is headache, which affects up to 50% of patients. Dizziness and lightheadedness from blood pressure lowering are also common, especially when first starting treatment.

Your doctor should explain exactly when and how to use your specific Nitroglycerin formulation. Don't hesitate to ask questions — proper use of this medication can be life-saving.