isosorbide mononitrate Health Article

Generic name(s):

isosorbide mononitrate

Brand name(s):

Imdur, ISMO, Monoket

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

Use isosorbide mononitrate exactly as directed. Follow your doctor's instructions, especially about the timing of your doses. Your blood needs to be free of isosorbide mononitrate for a certain period every day.

You may develop a headache because of this medicine, but do not stop taking it. Take aspirin or acetaminophen to treat the headache. Ask your doctor which is best for you. This side effect usually goes away as treatment with isosorbide mononitrate continues.

Do not stop taking isosorbide mononitrate suddenly. Stopping suddenly could cause a severe angina (chest pain) attack.

Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.

What is isosorbide mononitrate?

Isosorbide mononitrate is in a class of drugs called nitrates. Isosorbide mononitrate dilates (widens or relaxes) blood vessels (arteries and veins). When blood vessels are dilated, it is easier for the heart to pump. Also, more blood, which is rich in oxygen, can flow to the heart.

Isosorbide is used to prevent angina attacks (chest pain).

Isosorbide mononitrate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking isosorbide mononitrate?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you

• have had a heart attack

• have congestive heart failure

• have low blood pressure;

• have had a stroke, a transient ischemic attack (TIA, or mini-stroke), or a serious head injury;

• have anemia;

• have an allergy to nitrates;

• have closed-angle glaucoma;

• suffer from migraines;

• have kidney disease; or
• have liver disease.

The conditions listed above may prevent you from taking isosorbide or you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your therapy.

Isosorbide mononitrate is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will harm an unborn baby. Do not take isosorbide mononitrate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether isosorbide passes into breast milk. Do not take isosorbide mononitrate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take isosorbide mononitrate?

Take isosorbide mononitrate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Isosorbide is usually taken first thing in the morning before breakfast. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Swallow the extended-release forms of isosorbide mononitrate whole. Do not crush or chew them. They are specially formulated to release medication slowly into your body. Do not stop taking isosorbide mononitrate suddenly. Stopping suddenly could cause a severe angina attack. Store the tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Isosorbide mononitrate tablets must be stored in the container that your pharmacist gives them to you in. Throw away any leftover isosorbide mononitrate on the expiration date. Expired isosorbide will not treat your condition.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you are taking the regular tablets (not the extended-release tablets) and your next regularly scheduled dose is within 2 hours, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. If you are taking the extended release tablets and your next regularly scheduled dose is within 6 hours, also skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.