Discover important information about isosorbide mononitrate
If you’ve been diagnosed with angina, your doctor may prescribe isosorbide mononitrate. That’s why the medical review team here at Chemist2U has written this article to help you navigate some crucial facts about the medication.
In this article
How does isosorbide mononitrate work?
Isosorbide mononitrate is a heart medication that’s often prescribed to prevent and treat angina pectoris, also called stable angina, which is a symptom of coronary artery disease.[1]
Coronary heart disease happens when your arteries are narrowed.[2] Isosorbide mononitrate falls under the nitrate class, which is known for its ability to widen blood vessels by donating nitric oxide. This blood vessel dilation, called vasodilation, reduces venous return and preload to the heart, which reduces the demand on the heart muscle and thereby decreases its oxygen requirements. The direct dilatation of the coronary arteries also helps increase blood flow and oxygen to the heart.[3]
How do you take isosorbide mononitrate?
This cardiovascular drug is designed to be taken orally, before or after meals.
It’s crucial to follow the dosage and instructions provided by your doctor closely, as they are tailored to your specific needs, medical history, and current medication regimen. Proper storage is also vital; keep the medication in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture, to maintain its effectiveness.[4]
Regular check-ins with your doctor are important so they can keep an eye on your response to the medication. Close monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate isn’t usually necessary. However, it may be needed for certain groups of patients. This includes those with low blood pressure, people on diuretic therapy, elderly patients with specific conditions, or those experiencing significant fluid loss.
By keeping your doctor informed, they’ll have the details they need to determine if your angina treatment remains aligned with your evolving medical needs and conditions.
Who can take isosorbide mononitrate?
Isosorbide mononitrate is approved for the prophylactic treatment of angina pectoris for adults. Its safety and effectiveness on children have not been established. In addition, if you have allergies to nitrates, or have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, you must not take isosorbide mononitrate.[5]
Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication. They need to be fully aware of your medical history and any allergies to ensure that isosorbide mononitrate is a suitable treatment plan for you.
Side effects of isosorbide mononitrate
Common side effects of taking this medication include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. More serious but rare adverse reactions include low blood pressure, fast heart rate, vertigo, poor appetite, fainting and heartburn.[6]
If you experience any side effects, even those not mentioned, it’s important to inform your doctor promptly. They may adjust your dosage, change your medication, or make other interventions to manage these reactions. For severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
Isosorbide mononitrate and other medications
When starting isosorbide mononitrate, it’s essential to consider its interactions with other medications you may be taking. This includes everything from prescription drugs to over-the-counter medicines as well as any vitamins or supplements in your daily routine.
Sharing a comprehensive list of these with your doctor is critical. This transparency enables them to foresee and prevent possible drug interactions and side effects, ensuring this treatment plan is tailored to your needs and existing medication regimen. Neglecting to share this information can pose significant risks to your health.
Medicines you should not use with isosorbide mononitrate
When taking isosorbide mononitrate for your treatment, it’s important to be aware of specific medications that cannot be combined with it.
Notably, phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors like sildenafil and tadalafil are contraindicated due to the risk of life-threatening low blood pressure. Likewise, taking riociguat poses the same risks. Additionally, extra caution is needed if you’re using diuretics or other vasodilators since these combinations can significantly lower your blood pressure.[7]
So, if you’re currently on these medications, it’s crucial to discuss this with your doctor. They can explore alternative chest pain relief options that align with your health needs while avoiding dangerous interactions.
How to order home delivery of isosorbide mononitrate with Chemist2U
Making the medication management experience easier is our goal. This is why we’re committed to providing exceptional home delivery of medications from reliable chemists straight to patients and carers alike. Here’s how it works:
- Navigate this website or download the app. Download our user-friendly app or use this website.
- Upload your prescriptions online. Easily upload your e prescription for your medications on our platform.
- Add over-the-counter products. Similar to shopping at a physical pharmacy, you can also browse other pharmacy products on our platform. You may add any over-the-counter medication and other pharmacy goods to your cart.
- Handled by licensed chemists. A professional chemist from one of our partner pharmacies in your community will carefully dispense the medications on your eScript.
- Delivered to your doorstep. Order your medications by the cutoff time, which is typically 2 p.m. but varies in some locations, and enjoy same-day delivery* across metro and major regional areas in Australia. Note: A minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow 5 to 7 business days.
Having to Google terms like ‘chemist delivery’ or ‘chemist near me’ each time you need to have a prescription filled is a thing of the past. Order home delivery of your medications at Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557839/
[2] https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/bundles/your-heart/angina
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545149/
[4] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,661971000168103/isosorbide-mononitrate-an
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557839/#article-23789.s6
[6] https://www.tga.gov.au/sites/default/files/foi-093-1314-2.pdf
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557839/#article-23789.s6
