Drug Name: Isosorbide
Brand Names: Monoket, Dilatrate
Generic Name: Isosorbide Mononitrate (eye soe SORE bide)
Uses: Isosorbide is a nitrate drug. It is usually used to combat severe chest pains (angina) by widening the blood vessels around the heart to let blood flow easily and put less pressure on the heart to pump the blood stronger. It is also used to lower blood pressure. Lower blood pressure can help in reducing the risk of heart diseases, heart attacks and stroke.
How to use: Isosorbide comes in many forms of tablets that are taken by mouth. They come in regular, chewable, sublingual and long-release tablets. It is important to take Isosorbide only as directed, and taking more of what is necessary may be dangerous. Isosorbide treatments may vary from person to person, so follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. If there is any part of your doctor’s directions that you do not understand, do not hesitate to ask questions. Even if you feel better, you must not stop taking Isosorbide unless you are instructed by your doctor to do so.
Side Effects: Isosorbide may cause some side effects which include dizziness, nausea, fast heartbeats, swollen ankles and fatigue. If these side effects become severe, contact your doctor immediately.
There are some rare but serious side effects that can occur. These include fainting, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, dry mouth, and allergic reactions. If these happen, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
Precautions: Be sure to tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements that you are taking. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Isosorbide or some other medication. Also, tell your doctor if you have any history of heart, kidney or liver diseases as well as any history of heart attacks or strokes. Also, tell your doctor if you have any history of serious migraines, anemia, or have sustained a serious head injury.
Drug Interaction: Isosorbide may be affected when taking any other heart medicine as well as dihydroergotamine. Your doctor may need to reduce or change your prescription dosage as required. Also, you should not take sildenafil (Viagra) while taking Isosorbide since this may lower your blood pressure to critical levels.
Overdose: Symptoms of Isosorbide overdose include fainting, irregular heartbeat and seizures. In case of Isosorbide overdose, seek emergency medical treatment.
Notes: It is advisable to minimize alcohol intake or stop drinking completely while you are taking Isosorbide since drinking may further lower your blood pressure and cause problems. If it is unavoidable, consult your doctor.
Missed Dose: If you are taking the regular tablets, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, but if your next dose comes within the next two hours, skip the previous dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. If you are taking the extended-release tablets and your next dose comes within the next six hours, skip the previous dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose since this can be dangerous.
Important Note: This drug should not be used during pregnancy, since the effects of this medication on unborn fetuses are still unknown. If you become pregnant while taking Isosorbide, contact your doctor immediately.
Also, it is dangerous to suddenly stop taking Isosorbide. Make sure that you do not miss a dose if it can be helped. When going for long trips, make sure that you have an extra copy of your prescription with you and make sure that you have an ample supply of Isosorbide while traveling.
Be sure to attend all appointments with your doctor religiously since your treatment may involve lowering or increasing Isosorbide dosages over time.
Storage: Isosorbide must be tightly sealed and kept at room temperature. Do not store it at places with excessive heat or places with excessive moisture (such as the bathroom). Keep it out of the reach of children. Do not open the medication containers until you need them. Throw away any medication that is older than twelve months.
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