Isosorbide Mononitrate
What condition does Isosorbide Mononitrate treat?
Isosorbide Mononitrate is used to prevent chest pain called angina. Angina is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It usually occurs in patients with a certain heart condition called coronary artery disease.
Coronary artery disease is the blockage or narrowing of the coronary arteries. It is usually caused by atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the build-up of cholesterol and fatty deposits on the inner wall of the arteries. It is also sometimes called clogging or hardening of the arteries.
Isosorbide Mononitrate is a type of medicine called nitrate. Organic nitrates are vasodilators that are active in both arteries and veins. This medication comes as a tablet for oral use. This was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How does Isosorbide Mononitrate work?
Isosorbide Mononitrate works by relaxing and widening blood vessels. It is both in the heart and around the body.
Widening the veins lessens the volume of blood that returns to the heart with each heartbeat. It is to make for the heart to pump the blood out again easier. Widening the arteries around the body also lowers the resistance that the heart has to pump against. These effects mean that the heart does not need to use as much energy to pump the blood around the body. Therefore, it needs less oxygen.
By widening the arteries within the heart itself, this medication also improves the oxygen and blood supply to the heart muscle. These actions, allow the medicine to prevent angina attacks. It might occur when the heart does not get enough oxygen for the work it is doing.
What is the recommended dosage for Isosorbide Mononitrate?
Isosorbide Mononitrate is usually taken twice a day. Take the first dose when you wake up and the second dose 7 hours later. It is important to take it at the same time every day. Do not change the dose or take it more often without consulting your doctor.
The recommended dosage is based on your condition, age, weight, and response to it. It is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Call your doctor right away if you missed a dose of this medicine.
What are the side effects of Isosorbide Mononitrate?
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Hot flashes
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Stiffness or pain in joints or muscles
- Skin redness or warmth
- Tingling under your skin
- Light-headedness
What are the precautions in taking Isosorbide Mononitrate?
- This medication has a rare serious allergic reaction. However, get medical help right away if there are any symptoms of an allergic reaction.
- Try to rest or stay seated when you take this medicine. This may cause dizziness or fainting.
- Tell your doctor if you have any medical history or current medications.
- If you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, let your doctor know and consult first.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while having this medication.
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. Stopping suddenly could cause a severe angina attack.
- Keep this drug far from the reach of children.
