Why must sublingual nitroglycerin tablets and sublingual/chewable isosorbide remain in their original containers?

Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets and sublingual/chewable isosorbide must remain in their original containers primarily to ensure they maintain their potency and effectiveness. These medications are sensitive to moisture, air, and light, and their effectiveness can diminish if they're exposed to the external environment for prolonged periods. The original container is designed to provide an airtight seal and often includes protective measures to prevent degradation of the tablets.

While these medications do indeed play a crucial role in managing heart-related issues, the key reason for keeping them in their original packaging centers around stability and effectiveness, rather than solely their classification as heart medications. Thus, the original container serves an essential purpose in preserving the quality of the medication until it is needed for a patient experiencing angina or other conditions requiring immediate relief.