Isordil (Isosorbide Dinitrate) is a prescription medication used to prevent chest pain (angina) in patients with coronary artery disease. Other symptoms of coronary artery disease include light-headedness, nausea, weakness, and shortness of breath. The active ingredient in Isordil is Isosorbide Dinitrate. Isosorbide Dinitrate belongs to a class of drugs called nitrates. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels to improve blood flow to the heart. Isordil is only used for preventing chest pain. The drug will not relieve angina once it has started. Long-term use of Isordil may prevent angina attacks from occurring. This drug should not be taken before physical activities like sexual intercourse and exercise to prevent chest pain.

Manufacturer Information

Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Isordil. The most common side effects of Isordil may include the following:
• Dizziness, especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position;
• Flushing of face and neck;
• Headache;
• Nausea;
• Restlessness

Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Blurred vision;
• Excessive sweating;
• Fainting;
• Severe or prolonged headache;
• Skin rash

These are not all of the side effects of Isordil. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.

You should not take Isordil if you are allergic to Isosorbide Dinitrate or any ingredient in Isordil. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Are taking drugs for erectile dysfunction;
• Have heart problems;
• Have hypovolemia (low amount of blood);
• Have or at risk of cardiogenic shock

Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Isordil and sildenafil, ergotamine, riociguat, ibuprofen, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Isordil should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Isordil passes into breast milk and if it may harm nursing infants. Take Isordil precisely as prescribed by your doctor. The drug should be used 4 times daily, leaving a period of time called the nitrate-free period. For instance, you can use the drug every 4 hours between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. to allow the medication to work effectively and prevent your body from getting used to its effects. Isordil relaxes the blood vessels to improve blood flow, which may cause your blood pressure to decrease. Be careful when rising from a seated or lying position. Do not stop taking this drug without talking to your doctor. Stopping Isordil suddenly can cause withdrawal effects like aggravated chest pain. This drug may make you dizzy. Avoid taking alcohol when using this drug. Alcohol may increase the side effects of Isordil. Keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children. Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

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