Use of nitroglycerin ointment to treat primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon: a systematic literature review

Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) is a microvascular condition in which reversible ischemic attacks occur in the extremities. Due to the unpredictable nature of these attacks, pharmacologic agents that can be administered on as-needed basis are currently being sought after. Topical nitrates are well suited for as-needed use, and several different formulations have been studied for the treatment of RP, including ointments, gels, patches, and tapes. However, these different dosage forms are not all equal in terms of safety and efficacy, and not every one is commercially available for use in clinical practice. Nitroglycerin ointment is commercially available, and it has less systemic side effects than other topical formulations. Since its role in the treatment of RP has not yet been completely established, we performed a systematic search of Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to evaluate its safety and efficacy. A total of 1125 studies were identified, and 7 were included in our review. Although the included studies used different measures of efficacy, the majority reported positive responses to nitroglycerin ointment. The benefit of nitroglycerin ointment in the treatment of RP may be further realized through more robust investigation.