To estimate the effect of nitroglycerin (NTG) on the external respiration function and central hemodynamics, 124 patients with various forms of pulmonary tuberculosis and chronic nonspecific diseases of the lungs were examined. The indices of the external respiration function, central hemodynamics, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), general pulmonary resistance (GPR) and blood gaseous composition were determined before and after NTG sublingual use in a dose of 1 mg. It was noted that improvement of bronchial patency after the use of NTG was not significant and subsequently its indication as an agent arresting bronchospasm is not expedient. A statistically significant decrease in PASP and the indices of central hemodynamics, as well as a decrease in GPR might be considered as a basis for the use of nitrates in prophylaxis and treatment of chronic pulmonary heart in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis.