Common Use

Isosorbide is a nitrate medication. Its active ingredient, Isosorbide mononitrate, works by widening blood vessels and reducing the heart's workload. This drug is primarily used to prevent angina attacks (chest pain).

Similar nitrate medications include:

• Isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isochron, Isordil Titradose)
• Nitroglycerin (NitroQuick, Nitrolingual, Nitrostat, Nitro-Dur)

Dosage and Direction

For immediate-release tablets:

• Take 20 mg twice daily
• Space doses at least 7 hours apart to prevent tolerance

For extended-release tablets:

• Take 30-240 mg once daily

Precautions

Do not take Isosorbide if you:

• Use sildenafil (Viagra)
• Are allergic to Isosorbide derivatives or nitroglycerin
• Experience early heart attack symptoms (chest pain, nausea, sweating, arm pain)

Consult your doctor before use if you have:

• Congestive heart failure
• Low blood pressure
• Kidney disease

Important safety notes:

1. Initial treatment may cause severe headaches
2. This medication prevents angina attacks but doesn't treat active episodes
3. Never stop suddenly - may trigger severe angina
4. Stand up slowly to prevent blood pressure drops

Contraindications

Isosorbide is contraindicated for patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to nitrates/nitrites
• History of unpredictable reactions to nitrate medications

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Palpitations
• Blood pressure drops when standing
• General weakness

Drug Interactions

Do not combine with:

• PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Levitra, Cialis) - danger of severe blood pressure drop
• Calcium channel blockers (Cardizem, Verelan, Calan)

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose:

1. Take it as soon as you remember
2. Skip if near next scheduled dose
3. Never double dose
4. Resume regular schedule next day

Overdose Symptoms

• Rapid/pounding heartbeat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe headache or dizziness
• Vision problems
• Bloody diarrhea
• Cold, clammy skin
• Fainting or seizures

Storage

Proper storage guidelines:

• Keep at room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F)
• Protect from moisture, heat, and sunlight
• Keep away from children
• Do not store in bathrooms

Disclaimer

This information provides general medication details and doesn't cover all possible instructions, interactions, or precautions. Never use this for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. We cannot guarantee complete accuracy of this information or be held responsible for any consequences of its use.