Isosorbide mononitrate

What is Isosorbide mononitrate?

Isosorbide is used to prevent angina pectoris—crushing chest pains that result when partially clogged arteries restrict the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Isosorbide does not relieve angina attacks already underway.

What is the most important information I should know about Isosorbide mononitrate?

Isosorbide may cause severe low blood pressure (possibly marked by dizziness or fainting), especially when you are standing or if you sit up quickly. People taking blood pressure medication, those who have low blood pressure should use isosorbide with caution.

Who should not take Isosorbide mononitrate?

Do not use isosorbide if you are allergic to it or to other heart medications containing nitrates or nitrites.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Isosorbide mononitrate?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with isosorbide. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have had a heart attack, have congestive heart failure, a form of heart disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle), low blood pressure, suffer from migraines, or have kidney or liver disease.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 30 milligrams (mg) or 60 mg once daily. After several days the dosage may be increased to 120 mg once daily. In rare cases, a dosage of 240 mg may be required.

How should I take Isosorbide mononitrate?

The daily dose of isosorbide should be taken when you wake up in the morning. Do not chew or crush the tablets, swallow them whole with a half-glassful of water.

What should I avoid while taking Isosorbide mononitrate?

Do not abruptly stop taking isosorbide. This can worsen your condition.

Isosorbide may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other tasks that require concentration until you know how this drug affects you.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking isosorbide. Alcohol combined with isosorbide can result in very low blood pressure possibly resulting in fainting or falling.

Isosorbide may cause headaches. Do not try to avoid the headaches by changing your dose. If your headache stops, it may mean the drug has lost its effectiveness. Aspirin or acetaminophen may relieve the pain.

Avoid the concurrent use of Viagra, Cialis or Levitra as these may increase the risk of a severe drop in blood pressure.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Isosorbide mononitrate?

If isosorbide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining isosorbide with the following: calcium-blocking blood pressure medications such as diltiazem, nifedipine, and verapamil; erectile dysfunction drugs such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra

What are the possible side effects of Isosorbide mononitrate?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dizziness, headache, restlessness, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, low blood pressure.

Can I receive Isosorbide mononitrate if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of isosorbide during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Isosorbide mononitrate?

Take your dose of isosorbide as soon as you remember. If the next dose is in less than 2 hours, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Isosorbide mononitrate?

Keep isosorbide in the container it came in, tightly closed. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture.