Isosorbide Dinitrate

Isosorbide Dinitrate belongs to the class of medications known as nitrates. This medication is supplied as tablets for oral use. Each tablet is available in a strength of 5 mg. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this in 1968.

What condition does Isosorbide Dinitrate treat?

Isosorbide Dinitrate is a prescription medicine used to prevent angina which is a type of chest pain. It is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. This type of condition is usually in patients with a certain heart condition called coronary artery disease. This type of heart condition is the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. The main cause of this condition is atherosclerosis which is the build-up of fatty and cholesterol deposits on the inner wall of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is sometimes called clogging or hardening of the arteries. 

How does Isosorbide Dinitrate work?

Isosorbide Dinitrate is a type of vasodilator which is the dilator of blood vessels. Blood recurring from the body in the veins requires to be pumped in the heart through the lungs and into the arteries of the body in contradiction of the high pressure in the arteries. This will function well by allowing the muscles of the heart to make and use energy. Also, it will require oxygen.

This medication develops the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart. It also lessens the work that the heart must do. It is by expanding the arteries and veins in the body. Expanding the arteries lowers the pressure in the arteries against which the heart must pump. As a result of both effects, the heart works less and needs less blood and oxygen. It also expands the arteries that supply the heart with blood to let the heart receive more blood and oxygen. 

What is the dosage of Isosorbide Dinitrate?

Before taking Isosorbide Dinitrate, let your doctor know if you:

• Have low blood pressure
• Have any problems with the way your kidneys works or any problems with the way your liver works
• Have an underactive thyroid gland
• Have been told by a doctor you have low levels of iron in your blood or low levels of oxygen in your blood
• Have recently had a head injury or a heart attack
• Have an eye condition called glaucoma

Take this medication usually 2 to 3 times daily, by mouth or as directed by your doctor. Do not change the schedule of dosing unless directed by your doctor. It is important to take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not quickly stop taking this medicine without a consultation from your doctor. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. When the medicine is suddenly stopped, some certain conditions might become worse. Take this medicine regularly to get the most benefit from it.

Though unlikely, when this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well and may need different dosing. Inform your doctor if this prescription stops working well particularly if your chest pain occurs more often or if you have worsening chest pain.

What are the precautions in using Isosorbide Dinitrate?

• Before taking this medicine, inform your pharmacist or doctor if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that might cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Isosorbide Dinitrate may make you dizzy and alcohol can make you dizzier. Do not use machinery, drive, or do things that require your full alertness until you can do it safely.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication before having any surgery.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication especially light-headedness and dizziness which could increase the risk of falls.
• This medication must only be used when needed during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
• Drug interactions might change how your medicines will function or increase your risk for some serious side effects. Keep a list of all the products you use including herbal products, prescription, or non-prescription drugs. Share it with your pharmacist or doctor. 
  

Cost of Isosorbide Dinitrate vs. Isordil

The generic Isosorbide Dinitrate is a cheap medicine type of vasodilator. It only costs $0.29 per unit of 5 mg tablet and $29.33 for 100 tabs. The brand name Isordil costs $9.67 per unit of 5 mg tablet and $966.83 for 100 tabs.