GENERIC NAME: ISOSORBIDE MONONITRATE - ORAL SUSTAINED RELEASE (eye-so-SORE-bide mow-no-NYE-trate)

BRAND NAME(S): Imdur

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication is a nitrate drug. It is used to prevent chest pain (angina) and reduce strain on the heart in patients with heart disease (coronary artery disease). Isosorbide mononitrate relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. This medication will not relieve chest pain once it occurs. It is also not intended to be taken just before certain activities (e.g., exercise, sexual intercourse) to prevent chest pain. Other medications may be needed. Consult your doctor for details.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used in addition to other drugs to improve the symptoms of congestive heart failure (e.g., trouble breathing).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily upon awakening in the morning, with a half glass (4 ounces or 120 mL) of fluid. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets, which can destroy the long action of this drug and may increase side effects. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Although unlikely, when used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Contact your doctor if this medication stops working well (worsening or more frequent chest pain).

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to this medication. Headache is often a sign that this medication is working; treat it with an aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever as recommended by your doctor. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: more frequent or worsening chest pain, flushing, unusually slow or fast heartbeat, fainting. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.