What is Isosorbide Mononitrate?

Isosorbide Mononitrate is from the family of nitrate medications that are prescribed for preventing angina attacks, usually caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), and can be beneficial for reducing the number of angina attacks you experience. The symptoms of stable angina, the most common form, include pressure in your chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, and nausea. These symptoms resemble a heart attack and if you have an angina attack that does not stop after 15 minutes, you should call for medical help as it may be a heart attack in progress and time is of the essence.

What Causes Angina?

Angina attacks are your hearts way of letting you know it is working much too hard to supply blood to other organs and tissues. Your arteries can become narrowed with a build-up of plaque made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. This may be a result of having high blood pressure that causes damaged areas in the arteries that plaque can stick to. As your heart struggles to pump blood around your body, it is under such stress that you experience a warning sign, an angina attack.

Taking Isosorbide Mononitrate generic or brand to prevent the pain of angina does not indicate you are cured or not in danger of having a heart attack (myocardial infarction), but it will help by dilating your veins and arteries in your body and especially your heart. This allows a better blood flow to your heart muscle as it reduces the straining and a good blood supply is available for the rest of your body. Unless you implement some changes to your lifestyle, you will continue to be at risk for a heart attack. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

What Your Doctor Should Know Before Prescribing Isosorbide Mononitrate

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding to be certain Isosorbide Mononitrate is safe to take. Explain other medical conditions or allergies you have and provide a list of any Rx drugs you currently take or use, including OTC meds, herbal remedies, and vitamin supplements. This will help your doctor determine if Isosorbide Mononitrate is the right medication for you.

What You Should Know When Taking Isosorbide Mononitrate

Until you know how your body will react to Isosorbide Mononitrate, do not drive or attempt any activity that may be considered unsafe. Keep Isosorbide Mononitrate and other meds out of children’s reach and do not share any drugs with others. You should not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without consulting with your doctor. Men should not take any erection-enhancing drugs such as Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra (brand or generic) while also taking Isosorbide Mononitrate as this could cause a drop in blood pressure that may be life-threatening.

Possible Side Effects of Isosorbide Mononitrate

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Constipation/diarrhea
• Joint or muscle pain

Drugs Similar to Isosorbide Mononitrate

• Nitrostat
• Nitrolingual Pump Spray
• Minitran Patch