Nitroglycerin paste is a medical ointment made from the chemical nitroglycerin, also called glyceryl trinitrate, a member of the nitrate family. The paste is designed to be applied to the skin and is most frequently used to provide relief from chest pain. The cream also can be used for other conditions, such as anal fissures and Raynaud’s syndrome. Some studies have shown that nitroglycerin paste can increase bone density in older women. The chemical works by relaxing the blood vessels in the area where it is applied, allowing more room for blood to flow toward its destination.

Beginning in the late 19th century, nitroglycerin paste has been used to treat chest pains, a condition also known as angina. When applied to the skin, the ointment interacts with the chemistry of the body to produce more nitric oxide in the blood. The result of this is dilation of the veins and arteries and increased blood flow.

The properties of nitroglycerin paste also allow it to be used to help relieve the pain caused by anal fissures, or breaks in the anal canal. By creating nitric oxide, the pressure in the area of the fissure is reduced. The reduction in pressure and the increase in the flow of blood in the area can relieve the pain.

Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition in which the blood vessels in the hands and feet contract quickly and dramatically, causing the digits to turn blue or yellow. The fingers and toes also can become numb while the capillaries are constricted. Applying nitroglycerin paste to them can help to increase the flow of blood to the area, restoring color and feeling.

Using nitroglycerin paste must be done with extreme care, because it has a very strong effect on the areas of the skin that it touches. For this reason, it must usually be applied with an applicator such as a syringe or a protective pad. Once on the area needed, the cream is covered and left in contact with the skin for a period of time as prescribed by a doctor.

Some studies have suggested that nitroglycerin paste might increase bone density in post-menopausal women. These studies measured the increase as a result of daily topical applications of the ointment. The study saw the bone density in women increase over a period of two years of use.

Using nitroglycerin paste has some side effects. The most common is a headache that results from the way the medication works. Lightheadedness also might occur. Additionally, there is a risk of potentially fatal interactions with other drugs that reduce blood pressure.