Indications
Isordil (isosorbide dinitrate) is a medication used for the prevention of angina pectoris (chest pain) due to coronary artery disease. It belongs to the class of drugs known as nitrates, which work by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow and decreased workload on the heart.
Uses and Dosage
Isosorbide dinitrate is available in tablet form and should be taken orally, typically 2 to 3 times per day or as prescribed by your doctor. Take the medication at the same time each day and do not change the dosing schedule unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. The tablets should not be crushed or chewed as this can affect the release of the medication.
To get the most benefit from the medication, it should be taken regularly. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause certain conditions to worsen. If your doctor decides to discontinue the medication, your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
The recommended oral dosage of isosorbide dinitrate tablets is 5 to 20 milligrams (mg) for adults, to be taken two or three times a day, as needed. The actual dose may vary and should be determined by a doctor. There is no established dosage for children, and so the doctor must determine the appropriate dosage for pediatric patients on a case-by-case basis.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Isordil (Isosorbide Dinitrate):
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
- Headache
Serious Side Effects of Isordil (Isosorbide Dinitrate):
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast or slow heart rate
- Fluttering in your chest
- Hives
- Lightheadedness
- Pounding heartbeats
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Worsening chest pain
Form and Strength
Isordil (Isosorbide Dinitrate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Isosorbide Dinitrate: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 30 mg
Caution
- Patients with a history of an allergic reaction to isosorbide dinitrate or nitrates should avoid taking this medication.
- Isosorbide dinitrate can cause a drop in blood pressure, especially when changing positions (e.g., sitting up or standing up). Patients should rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid feeling dizzy or faint.
- Isosorbide dinitrate can cause headaches, which can be severe or persistent. Patients should inform their doctor if they experience headaches while taking this medication.
- Patients with liver or kidney problems may be more susceptible to the side effects of isosorbide dinitrate. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.
- Patients with certain medical conditions, such as low blood volume or hypotension, should avoid taking isosorbide dinitrate. Discuss any medical conditions with your doctor before taking this medication.
- Isosorbide dinitrate can interact with other medications, such as those used to treat erectile dysfunction or high blood pressure. Discuss all medications and supplements you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist before starting isosorbide dinitrate.
- Patients who use isosorbide dinitrate should not take PDE-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil) as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Isosorbide dinitrate should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless specifically directed by a doctor.
- Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of isosorbide dinitrate, particularly in terms of a drop in blood pressure. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.
- Isosorbide dinitrate can increase the pressure in the eye, particularly in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Patients should inform their doctor if they have glaucoma before starting isosorbide dinitrate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Isordil be used with other medications?
Isordil can interact with other medications, such as those used to treat erectile dysfunction or high blood pressure. Discuss all medications and supplements you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist before starting isosorbide dinitrate.
Can Isordil be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Isordil should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, unless specifically directed by a doctor.
How long does it take for Isordil to start working?
Isordil is a fast-acting medication and usually starts working within a few minutes of taking it. However, the duration of its effects may vary depending on the individual and the dose taken.
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