Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate is a long-acting anti-anginal drug that improves blood flow and reduces cardiac workload by dilating blood vessels.
Structure of Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate
- PETN is a nitrate ester of pentaerythritol, featuring four nitrate groups esterified to the hydroxyl groups of pentaerythritol.
- Chemical Formula: C₅H₈N₃O₁₈
Mode of Action
- Nitric Oxide Release: PETN metabolizes to release NO, causing vasodilation.
- Vasodilation: Similar to other nitrates, it relaxes vascular smooth muscle, reducing preload and afterload.
- Platelet Inhibition: Exhibits antiplatelet effects, reducing the risk of thrombosis.
Uses
- Angina Pectoris: Prevents anginal attacks by improving myocardial oxygen supply.
- Heart Failure: Used as part of multi-drug regimens to manage symptoms.
- Hypertension: Adjunctive treatment in hypertensive emergencies.
- Explosives: Although primarily a vasodilator, PETN is also used as an explosive due to its nitrate ester structure.
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