Description
💖 Isosorbide Mononitrate 20mg Tablet: Daily Relief from Angina Symptoms
💊 What is Isosorbide Mononitrate 20mg?
Isosorbide Mononitrate 20mg is a short to intermediate-acting nitrate used for the prevention and management of angina pectoris (chest pain due to coronary artery disease). It works by relaxing vascular smooth muscles, leading to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). This reduces the oxygen demand of the heart, relieving stress and preventing episodes of chest pain.
Unlike nitroglycerin, this is not used for immediate angina relief but for regular prophylactic therapy.
🔬 Active Ingredient
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Isosorbide Mononitrate 20mg per tablet
Inactive Ingredients may include:
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Lactose monohydrate
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Microcrystalline cellulose
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Magnesium stearate
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Corn starch
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Talc
📋 How to Use
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Dosage: Usually 20mg two to three times daily depending on the physician’s recommendation.
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Administration: Orally, with or without food.
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Timing: Doses should be spaced at least 7 hours apart to avoid tolerance.
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Swallow whole, do not crush or chew.
✅ Indications
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Chronic stable angina
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Adjunct therapy in ischemic heart disease
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Occasionally used in congestive heart failure
🤕 Common Side Effects
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Headache (very frequent, often during initial use)
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Flushing
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Nausea
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Weakness
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Hypotension (low blood pressure)
These side effects are typically self-limiting with continued use.
⚠️ Serious Side Effects
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Severe hypotension leading to fainting
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Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
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Syncope (loss of consciousness)
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Drug tolerance with prolonged continuous use
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Allergic reactions: swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing (rare)
Immediate medical attention is needed for severe or persistent reactions.
🩺 Monitoring & Follow-Up
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Blood pressure monitoring: Especially in those with other cardiovascular medications
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Heart rate tracking
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Assess angina frequency and severity
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Review for signs of nitrate tolerance
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Periodic reevaluation to adjust dose or timing
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
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Do not use concurrently with PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil): Risk of profound hypotension
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Use with caution in patients with hypovolemia, low blood pressure, or recent heart attack
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Avoid alcohol: may enhance blood pressure-lowering effects
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Not suitable for acute angina attacks
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Tolerance may develop; schedule-free periods (e.g., overnight) may help reduce this
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Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless necessary
🧾 Summary
Isosorbide Mononitrate 20mg tablet is a reliable and widely used oral nitrate therapy for preventing angina symptoms in patients with coronary artery disease. It improves oxygen delivery to the heart by dilating blood vessels, helping reduce chest pain frequency and severity. Common side effects like headache and dizziness are manageable and often temporary. Close monitoring of blood pressure, symptoms, and tolerance is essential for long-term safety and effectiveness. Not intended for emergency pain relief, this medication forms a cornerstone in the chronic management of stable angina, helping patients improve quality of life and cardiac function.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
