Which medication is listed for chest pain relief in myocardial infarction through vasodilation?

• A. Aspirin
• B. Oxygen therapy
• C. Nebulized bronchodilator
• D. Nitrates for chest pain

Answer: (D)

Chest pain relief in myocardial infarction through vasodilation is produced by nitrates. Nitrates relax vascular smooth muscle by releasing nitric oxide, leading to venodilation that lowers preload and myocardial wall stress, and they can also dilate coronary arteries to improve blood flow. This combination reduces oxygen demand and can help relieve chest pain quickly, typically given as a sublingual tablet or IV infusion with blood pressure monitoring. While aspirin is essential in MI for its antiplatelet effects, it does not provide vasodilation to relieve pain. Oxygen therapy helps if there’s low oxygen saturation but isn’t a vasodilator, and nebulized bronchodilators target airway smooth muscle, not the coronary vessels. Therefore, the option that fits chest pain relief through vasodilation is a nitrate.