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Nitroglycerin is a medication commonly used in the management of angina pectoris, which is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles. This drug functions as a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes the blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow and reduced workload on the heart, ultimately alleviating the symptoms associated with angina. It is important for patients with angina to have nitroglycerin available to use during episodes of chest pain, as it can provide quick relief.

The other conditions listed do not directly relate to nitroglycerin's primary use. Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints; asthma involves airway constriction and is treated with bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications; and chronic cough is a symptom that may arise from various respiratory issues but does not involve the cardiac aspects that nitroglycerin addresses. Understanding the specific role of nitroglycerin in treating angina helps clarify why it is the correct answer regarding its indicated use.