Described is a process for the synthesis of mono- and bis-nitrosylated propanediols, as well as compositions and pharmaceutical formulations that includes the compounds. The process proceeds by reacting a corresponding propanediol that is not nitrosylated with a source of nitrite, optionally in the presence of a suitable acid. When the source of nitrite is an organic nitrite, reacting step is performed in a suitable organic solvent, and when the source of nitrite is an inorganic nitrite, the reacting step is performed in a bi-phasic solvent mixture comprising an aqueous phase and a non-aqueous phase. Also disclosed are methods of treating a condition wherein administration of nitric oxide (NO) has a beneficial effect by administering said compounds, compositions or formulations.