Which side effect is commonly associated with the use of nitrates?

Nitrates are commonly used as antianginal agents due to their ability to dilate blood vessels, thereby reducing the workload on the heart and improving blood flow. A well-known side effect of nitrates is the occurrence of headaches. This happens because the vasodilation induced by nitrates can lead to increased blood flow to the cranial vessels, which often results in headaches as a secondary effect.

The headaches associated with nitrate use can vary in intensity but are generally considered a common and expected side effect. Patients may be advised on this possibility when prescribed nitrates, and in many cases, the headaches may diminish as the body adjusts to the medication over time.

While nitrates can influence blood pressure, resulting in hypotension rather than hypertension, and can affect heart rate, these occurrences are less frequently listed as common side effects. Diarrhea is not typically associated with the use of nitrates, making headaches the most relevant and recognized adverse effect in this context.