Locations:

Isosorbide Mononitrate Tablets

What is this medication?

ISOSORBIDE MONONITRATE (eye soe SOR bide mon oh NYE trate) prevents chest pain (angina). It works by relaxing blood vessels, which decreases the amount of work the heart has to do. It belongs to a group of medications called nitrates. Do not use it to treat sudden chest pain.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ismo, Monoket

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Previous heart attack or heart failure
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to isosorbide mononitrate, nitrates, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly or your symptoms may get worse. Ask your care team how to gradually reduce the dose.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

Advertisement

  • Medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) like avanafil, sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil
  • Riociguat

This medication may also interact with the following:

  • Medications for high blood pressure
  • Other medications for angina or heart failure

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medication. Ask your care team what your heart rate and blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her. Tell your care team if you feel your medication is no longer working.

You may get dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you more dizzy, and increase flushing and rapid heartbeats. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medication without asking your care team for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Headache, unusual weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, blue skin or lips, which may be signs of methemoglobinemia
  • Increased pressure around the brain—severe headache, blurry vision, change in vision, nausea, vomiting
  • Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
  • Slow heartbeat—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, confusion, trouble breathing, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Worsening chest pain (angina)—pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, neck, back, or arms

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Dizziness
  • Flushing
  • Headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

Ad
Call Appointment Center 866.320.4573
Questions 216.444.2200