Which medication form is typically used for immediate relief of angina?

Sublingual (SL) tablets are designed specifically for the rapid relief of angina symptoms. When placed under the tongue, these tablets dissolve quickly and are absorbed directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. This allows for a swift onset of action, which is essential in the management of angina, as patients experiencing chest pain need immediate relief.

The formulation of SL tablets, often containing nitroglycerin, capitalizes on the rich blood supply under the tongue, facilitating rapid delivery of the active ingredient for quick symptomatic relief. In contrast, other forms like regular tablets would take longer to dissolve and be absorbed, making them less suitable for the immediate requirements of angina treatment. Similarly, gels and syrups are not typically formulated for the rapid alleviation of acute angina, as they do not offer the same speed of action as sublingual preparations.