Isordil (Isosorbide Dinitrate) Detailed Information

The active ingredient in Isordil is **Isosorbide Dinitrate**. Inactive ingredients may include lactose, starch, silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate.

Common side effects of Isordil include:

• Headache (common and may lessen over time)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Flushing (warmth, redness in face or neck)
• Fatigue or weakness

Less common but serious side effects include:

• Severe dizziness or fainting (due to low blood pressure)
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat
• Blurred vision
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Persistent chest pain or pressure (seek medical help immediately)

If you experience severe side effects, stop using the medication and seek medical attention immediately.

Isordil is usually taken **orally, on an empty stomach, with a full glass of water**, as prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on the patient’s condition:

• The usual dose for **angina prevention** is **5-40 mg taken 2-3 times daily**.
• To avoid **nitrate tolerance**, doses should be spaced to allow a **nitrate-free period** (e.g., no dose taken for at least 12-14 hours a day).
• Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush or chew extended-release tablets.

Isordil is **not for immediate angina relief**. If acute chest pain occurs, use **nitroglycerin** as prescribed.

Isordil may interact with other medications, including:

• Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil): Can cause a severe drop in blood pressure and should be avoided.
• Antihypertensive drugs (e.g., Beta-blockers, Calcium channel blockers): May enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect.
• Alcohol: Can increase dizziness and low blood pressure risk.
• Diuretics: May enhance hypotensive effects.
• Ergotamine derivatives: May reduce the effectiveness of Isordil.

Consult your doctor before combining Isordil with other medications.

Isordil begins to work within **30 minutes** of ingestion, with peak effects occurring in **1-2 hours**. The duration of action depends on the dosage form, typically lasting **4-6 hours** for regular tablets and longer for extended-release forms.

If you experience symptoms such as **severe dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, or intense chest pain**, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include confusion, slow heartbeat, or loss of consciousness.