For which condition are nitrates primarily prescribed?

Nitrates are primarily prescribed for angina pectoris because they effectively relieve chest pain associated with reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. They achieve this by causing vasodilation, which widens blood vessels, thereby decreasing the heart's workload and improving the delivery of oxygen to the heart. This mechanism is particularly beneficial during episodes of angina, where the heart's oxygen demand exceeds its supply, often triggered by physical exertion or stress.

In contrast, while nitrates may have some effects on other conditions, they are not the first line for hypertension, heart failure, or arrhythmia. In the case of hypertension, other classes of medications like ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers are typically preferred. For heart failure, nitrates may be used in specific circumstances, but they are not the primary treatment. With arrhythmias, other antiarrhythmic medications are more effective for managing heart rhythm abnormalities. Thus, the most accurate indication for nitrate use is for the relief of angina pectoris.