Isosorbide Mononitrate
Information about Isosorbide Mononitrate
Isosorbide mononitrate uses
Isosorbide Mononitrate is used to prevent Angina (heart-related chest pain).
How isosorbide mononitrate works
Isosorbide Mononitrate is a nitrate. It reduces the workload of the heart. As a result, the heart muscle does not need as much blood and oxygen supply.
Common side effects of isosorbide mononitrate
Headache, Dizziness, Dryness in mouth, Edema (swelling), Migraine, Neuritis, Breathlessness, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats)
Available Medicine for Isosorbide Mononitrate
Expert advice for Isosorbide Mononitrate
- You have been prescribed Isosorbide Mononitrate for the prevention and treatment of heart-related chest pain (angina).
- Eat healthy (low-fat, high-fiber, low-sodium diet), quit smoking, increase your physical activity, watch your weight and reduce stress.
- Isosorbide Mononitrate may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Do not consume alcohol while taking Isosorbide Mononitrate as it may cause increased dizziness.
- It may cause headaches which usually go away after a few days of continued treatment. Inform your doctor if it persists.
- You may develop tolerance to Isosorbide Mononitrate with time, meaning that the same dose may be less effective next time. Follow the prescribed dosing schedule to avoid this.
- Stop taking medications (prescribed for erectile dysfunction) like sildenafil or tadalafil while on treatment with Isosorbide Mononitrate as it may cause low blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions for Isosorbide Mononitrate
Isosorbide Mononitrate
Q. Does Isosorbide Mononitrate lower BP?
Yes, Isosorbide Mononitrate can cause a fall in blood pressure. This medicine widens the blood vessels and decreases the resistance in them, causing a fall in blood pressure. This fall in blood pressure may in turn decrease the heartbeat which can lead to angina. This medicine should be avoided in people who already have low blood pressure. Discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Q. Does Isosorbide Mononitrate affect heart rate?
Yes, Isosorbide Mononitrate may affect the heart rate. Isosorbide Mononitrate causes a decrease in blood pressure. This decrease in blood pressure further causes a decrease in the heart rate (bradycardia). In some cases, it may also cause an increase in the heart rate (tachycardia). Consult your doctor in case you do not feel well after taking this medicine or if you notice a change in your heart rate.
Q. Can Isosorbide Mononitrate be taken at night?
Depending upon the dose, your doctor may recommend you to take this medicine once or twice daily. When a single dose is recommended, then it is preferred to be taken in the morning. If taking it twice a day, maintain a gap of 7 hours between the two doses. This helps decrease the chances of Isosorbide Mononitrate becoming ineffective (tolerance) after some time.