What is the recommended starting dose of nitroglycerin infusion for a STEMI patient?

The recommended starting dose of nitroglycerin infusion for a STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) patient is typically 5-10 mcg per minute. This range is considered effective for managing chest pain and reducing myocardial oxygen demand in this patient population.

Nitroglycerin works as a vasodilator, which helps to decrease preload and afterload, improving cardiac output and relieving ischemic pain. Starting within this dose allows for careful titration based on the patient's response and tolerance to the medication.

Using a dose lower than 5 mcg per minute may not provide sufficient relief or hemodynamic benefit, while starting at levels higher than 10 mcg per minute increases the risk of adverse effects such as hypotension or reflex tachycardia. Monitoring the patient's response is crucial, and dosages can be adjusted accordingly to achieve the desired effect without exceeding safe limits.