Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication. Remote first aid for suspected minor heart attack should be followed with medical guidance.
- Aspirin (Chewable)
- Dose: Usually 160–325 mg (chewable form is preferred for faster absorption)
Why: Aspirin helps prevent blood clots from worsening by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which can reduce the severity of the heart attack.
- Important: Must be given ASAP once symptoms start, unless allergic or contraindicated.
- Nitroglycerin (Sublingual Tablets or Spray)
- Dose: 0.3 to 0.6 mg under the tongue every 5 minutes as needed (usually up to 3 doses)
- Why: Helps dilate coronary arteries, improving blood flow and relieving chest pain (angina).
- Important: Must be used with caution — do not use if patient has very low blood pressure or is taking certain medications like PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil).
- Oxygen (If available and patient is short of breath or low oxygen saturation)
- Helps improve oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
Additional Considerations
- Emergency Contact: Call emergency services immediately — time is critical.
- Patient Monitoring: Watch for worsening symptoms like severe chest pain, sweating, nausea, difficulty breathing.
- Avoid Physical Exertion: Patient should rest and stay calm.
- Medical History: Note if the patient has medications like beta blockers, anticoagulants, or other cardiac meds.
What NOT to Use Without Medical Advice
- Do not give painkillers like opioids unless prescribed.
- Avoid giving aspirin if allergic or if bleeding risk is high.
- Nitroglycerin should not be used if systolic BP < 90 mmHg or if taken medications that contraindicate it.
- Please consult a doctor for treatment & medication.