Indications 

Minitran Patch is a transdermal medication indicated for angina (chest pain) prevention in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD), a form of heart disease characterized by narrowed heart blood vessels. 

Minitran Patch falls within the category of drugs called nitrates. It functions by dilating and relaxing blood vessels to facilitate improved blood flow to the heart. 

Uses and Dosage 

Thoroughly review the medication guide and patient information leaflet accompanying Minitran Patch before the first use and with each prescription refill. Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist regarding any sections that may be unclear. 

Minitran Patch is indicated to be placed on the skin for 12-14 hours. 

This patch is usually applied to the upper arm or chest, though it can be worn anywhere on the body below the neck and above the knees or elbows.  

The application site must be clean, dry, and hairless; if necessary, hair may be clipped but not shaved. Avoid areas with skin folds, cuts, irritation, scars, burns, breaks, or callouses, and select a different area each day for application. 

To properly apply Minitran Patch, follow these steps: 

1. Wash your hands thoroughly. 
2. After bathing or showering, wait until your skin is fully dry before applying the patch. 
3. Hold the patch with the plastic backing facing you. 
4. Bend the sides of the patch away and then toward you until you hear a snap. 
5. Peel off one side of the plastic backing. 
6. Use the other side of the patch as a handle and apply the sticky half to the chosen skin area. 
7. Press the sticky side firmly onto the skin and smooth it down. 
8. Fold back the other side of the patch, holding onto the remaining piece of plastic backing. 
9. Use the backing to pull the patch across the skin. 
10. Wash your hands after applying the patch. 
11. When it is time to replace the patch, press down on its center to lift the edges away from the skin. 
12. Hold the edge gently and peel the patch slowly from the skin. 
13. Fold the used patch in half with the sticky sides pressed together and dispose of it safely. 
    • Keep it out of the reach of children and pets due to potential residual medication. 
14. Wash the patch-covered skin with soap and water. 
    • If the skin is dry, you may apply lotion.  
    • Contact your doctor if redness persists after a short time. 

For optimal results, use Minitran Patch regularly, exactly as directed. To aid in adherence, replace the patch at the same time daily. 

Avoid discontinuing the use of this patch abruptly without consulting your doctor, as some conditions may worsen with sudden cessation; your dose may require gradual reduction. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness or headache 
• Skin irritation 

Frequent headaches can indicate the effectiveness of Minitran Patch. Your doctor may suggest using an over-the-counter pain reliever (e.g., acetaminophen or aspirin) to manage headaches.  

Inform your doctor if these common side effects last or intensify. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe dizziness or fainting 
• Rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat 
• Flushing 
• Blurred vision 
• Dry mouth 
• Excessive sweating 
• Pale skin 
• Severe nausea or vomiting 
• Restlessness 
• Profound fatigue or weakness 
• New or worsening chest pain 

Inform your doctor immediately or seek medical assistance if you experience any severe side effects. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Minitran Patch can occur. Medical assistance should be sought immediately if any of the following symptoms appear: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever) 
• Wheezing 
• Chest or throat tightness 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

This list does not include all potential side effects of Minitran Patch. If you experience any effects that are not listed here, notify your doctor. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Minitran Patch, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to nitroglycerin, similar drugs (e.g., isosorbide mononitrate), nitrites, or any ingredients in this transdermal patch. 

Inform your doctor about your medical history to evaluate the appropriateness of Minitran Patch for you, especially highlighting any past occurrences of: 

• Anemia 
• Low blood pressure 
• Dehydration 
• Other heart problems (e.g., recent heart attack) 
• Recent head injury 

Ensure that your doctor is aware of all the medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid any potential drug interactions with Minitran Patch. 

Some of the products that may interact with Minitran Patch include:  

• Medications for erectile dysfunction (ED) or pulmonary hypertension (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil) 
• Certain drugs for migraine headaches (ergot alkaloids like ergotamine)  
• Riociguat 
• Vericiguat 

The use of Minitran Patch may affect certain lab tests (blood cholesterol levels), leading to inaccurate results. Ensure to inform laboratory staff that you are using this transdermal patch beforehand. 

When scheduled for an MRI test, inform the testing personnel of your use of Minitran Patch, as it may contain metal that poses a risk of serious burns during the procedure. Seek guidance from your doctor regarding the necessity of patch removal before the test, the proper removal procedure, and the subsequent application of a new patch. 

Minitran Patch may induce dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, particularly when rising quickly from a lying position or under the influence of alcoholic beverages. To mitigate this risk, rise slowly, rest your feet on the floor for a few minutes before standing, and exercise additional caution to prevent falls while wearing the patch. 

Refrain from driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness and clear eyesight until the impact of Minitran Patch is assessed. 

Rarely, prolonged use of Minitran Patch may cause it to become less effective, a phenomenon referred to as tolerance. Ensure a daily “nitrate-free” interval and consult with your doctor if there is diminished efficacy. Adhere to the prescribed dosage and refrain from self-adjusting. 

Minitran Patch is not recommended for alleviating chest pain after its onset, nor is it intended for immediate use before physical activities (such as exercise or sexual activity) to prevent chest pain. In such cases, alternative medications may be necessary. 

Inform your healthcare provider of pregnancy status, plans for pregnancy, or breastfeeding status before using Minitran Patch. A discussion on the potential benefits and risks to both you and the baby is essential.