Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ISOSORBIDE MONONITRATE - ORAL SUSTAINED RELEASE

(eye-so-SORE-bide mow-no-NYE-trate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Imdur

Uses

This medication helps to widen blood vessels so blood flows better. It is used to prevent chest pain (angina).

How To Use

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day so you remember to take it. Swallow this medication whole. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking this medication routinely to prevent episodes of chest pain. This is not helpful in relieving chest pain once it occurs.

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, flushing, rapid heartbeat or restlessness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To prevent dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Notify your doctor if you develop: blurry vision, dry mouth, skin, rash, nausea. Headache is often a sign the medication is working. Treat headaches with an aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever as recommended by your doctor. If the headaches continue or become severe, notify your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have ever had: angle-closure glaucoma, blood disorders, low blood pressure, recent head injury, recent heart attack, allergies (especially to nitrates). Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially the blood pressure lowering effects. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and avoid overheating which will aggravate these effects.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may use, especially of: blood pressure drugs, certain drugs for migraines (ergot alkaloids), sildenafil, high doses of aspirin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include throbbing headache, confusion, dizziness, perspiring skin, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, slow pulse, and loss of consciousness.

Notes

Some persons may develop a tolerance to the effects of this medication over time. Notify your doctor if the medication appears to be losing its effectiveness or if the chest pain continues while taking this drug.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store medication in cool dry place between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) in a tight container. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).