Isosorbide Mononitrate

Isosorbide Mononitrate is an antianginal (also known as a nitrate) drug used for the treatment and prevention of angina (chest pain). It can help reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain associated with coronary artery disease. It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels so that blood may flow more easily, thereby reducing the strain placed on the heart.

Uses for Isosorbide Mononitrate

Isosorbide mononitrate is used to treat and prevent angina (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease. It works by widening and relaxing blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to the heart and decrease the pain associated with angina. It can also be used to reduce the number and frequency of angina attacks.

Brand Name Isosorbide Mononitrate
Type
Weight
Generic Isosorbide Mononitrate
Manufacturer
Available in English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Isosorbide mononitrate works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which allows more blood to flow to the heart and decreases the strain placed on the heart. The drug can also help reduce the production of angiotensin II, which is a hormone that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

It usually takes about 30 minutes for isosorbide mononitrate to take effect. However, the exact amount of time may vary depending on the individual and the dose.

Absorption

Isosorbide mononitrate is absorbed slowly, and peak levels are seen after 1-2 hours. The rate of absorption may vary depending on the individual.

Route of Elimination

Isosorbide mononitrate is primarily eliminated through the kidneys via urine.

Dosage and Administration

To avoid the potential for overdose, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for taking isosorbide mononitrate. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs. The usual starting dose is 20-40 mg twice a day, with a maximum dose of 120 mg per day. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed.

Side Effects

Common side effects of isosorbide mononitrate include headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. Other side effects include flushing of the skin, pounding heartbeat, and dry mouth. If these side effects persist or worsen, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.

Toxicity

Isosorbide mononitrate is generally well tolerated. However, it is possible to experience an overdose of this medication. If you experience any of the symptoms of an overdose, such as blurred vision, confusion, drowsiness, difficulty breathing, fainting, or rapid heartbeat, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions

Before taking isosorbide mononitrate, it is important to tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a nitrate medication, if you have a history of heart disease or stroke, if you have low blood pressure, if you have glaucoma or difficulty urinating, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are taking any other medications.

Interaction

It is important to inform your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, as isosorbide mononitrate may interact with certain drugs. In particular, isosorbide mononitrate may interact with certain antibiotics, blood pressure medications, anti-seizure medications, and other nitrate medications.

Disease Interactions

Isosorbide mononitrate may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe liver or kidney disease, certain types of anemia, or uncontrolled congestive heart failure. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking isosorbide mononitrate.

Drug Interactions

Isosorbide mononitrate may interact with certain drugs, including antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, and other nitrate medications. It is important to let your doctor know about all medications you are taking before taking isosorbide mononitrate.

Food Interactions

Isosorbide mononitrate may interact with certain foods. It is important to avoid fatty or fried foods while taking this medication. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should also be avoided.

Pregnancy Use

Isosorbide mononitrate should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and after careful consideration. It is not recommended for use during the first trimester, and the use should continue only if there is serious risk of angina. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before taking isosorbide mononitrate.

Lactation Use

It is not known if isosorbide mononitrate is secreted in breast milk. Therefore, this drug should be used cautiously by nursing mothers. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed before taking isosorbide mononitrate.

Acute Overdose

An overdose of isosorbide mononitrate can be dangerous. Common symptoms of an overdose include confusion, drowsiness, difficulty breathing, fainting, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat. If you believe you may have an overdose, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Contraindication

Isosorbide mononitrate is contraindicated in certain individuals and conditions, such as those with a history of an allergic reaction to this or other nitrate medications, those with severe liver or kidney disease, those with certain types of anemia, and those with uncontrolled congestive heart failure. It is also contraindicated in those who are pregnant in the first trimester or planning to become pregnant.

Use Direction

It is important to take isosorbide mononitrate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The usual dose is 20-40 mg twice a day, with a maximum dose of 120 mg daily. Do not take more or less of this medication than prescribed, and do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor first.

Storage Condition

Store isosorbide mononitrate at room temperature and away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of isosorbide mononitrate is 0.84 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of intravenously administered isosorbide mononitrate is 1.3-3 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of isosorbide mononitrate is 2.2-4.2 mL/min/kg.

See in details version Isosorbide Mononitrate also Isosorbide Mononitrate in bangla

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Isosorbide Mononitrate

1. What is Isosorbide Mononitrate ?

Isosorbide Mononitrate is a nitrate medication used to prevent and manage chest pain (angina) by improving blood flow to the heart.

2. What are the uses of Isosorbide Mononitrate ?

It is used for:

  • Preventing angina (chest pain)
  • Managing heart failure
  • Improving blood supply to the heart
  • Reducing the workload of the heart

3. How does Isosorbide Mononitrate work?

It relaxes and widens blood vessels, reducing the heart’s workload and improving oxygen supply.

4. What is the recommended dosage?

It varies, but typically **20-120 mg per day** taken once or twice daily.

5. Can I take Isosorbide Mononitrate on an empty stomach?

Yes, it is best taken on an **empty stomach** with water.

6. What are the common side effects?

Possible side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Low blood pressure
  • Flushing
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue

7. Can I take it if I have low blood pressure?

It should be used with caution, as it can further lower blood pressure.

8. Does Isosorbide Mononitrate cause drowsiness?

It may cause dizziness but does not usually cause drowsiness.

9. Can I drink alcohol while taking it?

No, alcohol can increase dizziness and cause dangerously low blood pressure.

10. Is Isosorbide Mononitrate a blood thinner?

No, it is a **vasodilator**, not a blood thinner.

11. Can I drive after taking Isosorbide Mononitrate ?

If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, avoid driving.

12. Is Isosorbide Mononitrate safe during pregnancy?

It should only be used if prescribed by a doctor.

13. Can I take it while breastfeeding?

Consult your doctor, as its effects on breast milk are unclear.

14. Can children take Isosorbide Mononitrate ?

It is not usually prescribed for children.

15. What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, but **do not double the dose** if it’s close to the next one.

16. What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include:

  • Severe dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Blurred vision
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heart rate
Seek emergency medical help.

17. Can I take it with aspirin?

Yes, but under a doctor’s supervision.

18. How long does it take to work?

It starts working **within 30-60 minutes** and lasts up to 12-24 hours, depending on the formulation.

19. Can it be used for a heart attack?

It is used for **angina prevention** but is not for immediate heart attack treatment.

20. Is Isosorbide Mononitrate available as an injection?

No, it is available in **tablet form** only.

21. Can I take it with beta-blockers?

Yes, but dosage adjustments may be needed.

22. Is Isosorbide Mononitrate a diuretic?

No, it does not increase urine output.

23. Can I take it for migraine headaches?

No, it is not used for migraines.

24. Can I take it daily?

Yes, it is prescribed for daily use.

25. Can I stop taking it suddenly?

No, stopping suddenly may worsen angina. Reduce the dose gradually under a doctor's guidance.

26. Does it affect kidney function?

It is generally safe for kidneys.

27. Can it cause allergic reactions?

Rarely, but symptoms may include:

  • Skin rash
  • Swelling
  • Breathing difficulty
  • Seek medical help if allergic reactions occur.

    28. Can I take it for high blood pressure?

    It is not typically used for hypertension but may help in some cases.

    29. Does it cause weight gain?

    No, it does not cause weight gain.

    30. Can I take it with antidepressants?

    Consult your doctor to avoid interactions.

    31. Is Isosorbide Mononitrate available over the counter?

    No, it requires a prescription.

    32. Does it help with shortness of breath?

    It may help in heart failure patients.

    33. Can I take it with calcium supplements?

    Yes, there is no major interaction.

    34. Is it habit-forming?

    No, it does not cause dependence.

    35. Can I take it with vitamin D?

    Yes, it does not interact with vitamin D.

    36. Does it affect sleep?

    It does not usually cause sleep disturbances.

    37. Can elderly patients take Isosorbide Mononitrate ?

    Yes, but with caution due to the risk of low blood pressure.

    38. Does it affect digestion?

    It may cause nausea in some people.

    39. Can I take it with food?

    It can be taken with or without food.

    40. Can I take it with paracetamol?

    Yes, it can be combined with paracetamol.

    41. Does it help with anxiety?

    No, it is not an anti-anxiety drug.

    42. Can I take it long-term?

    Yes, it is often prescribed for long-term use.

    43. Can it be taken with herbal supplements?

    Consult your doctor before combining with herbal medicines.

    44. Does it cause muscle cramps?

    Rarely, but some people may experience muscle weakness.

    45. Can I take it with omeprazole?

    Yes, there is no major interaction.

    46. Can I take it with metformin?

    Yes, it is safe for diabetics.

    47. Does it affect blood sugar levels?

    No, it does not significantly affect blood sugar.

    48. Can I take it with thyroid medication?

    Yes, but consult a doctor.

    49. Does it help in stroke prevention?

    It is not directly used for stroke prevention.

    50. Is Isosorbide Mononitrate safe for diabetic patients?

    Yes, but blood pressure should be monitored.

    *** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
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