Sign inBefore taking isosorbide mononitrate
Before taking isosorbide mononitrate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you suffer from a heart condition, liver or kidney problems.
- If you suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure).
- If you have recently suffered a head injury or brain haemorrhage.
- If you have recently suffered a heart attack.
- If you suffer from anaemia (low levels of iron in the blood) or hypoxaemia (low levels of oxygen in the blood).
- If you suffer from thyroid problems.
- If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
- If you are taking any products to help treat erectile dysfunction (such as Viagra®).
- If you suffer from hypothermia (low body temperature).
- If you suffer from poor nutrition.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take isosorbide mononitrate
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Swallow your tablet or capsule whole. Do not chew or crush it.
- Try to take isosorbide mononitrate at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
- If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
Getting the most from your treatment
- It is best not to drink alcohol while you are taking isosorbide mononitrate as alcohol can make the dizziness you may feel worse. If you do drink alcohol, drink only a little and be aware of its effect on you.
- The longer you take isosorbide mononitrate, the more your body can get used to it which sometimes means it has a lesser effect. To avoid this your doctor may advise that you have some time during each day without isosorbide mononitrate. Follow carefully any instructions you have been given about when to take your doses.
- If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
- Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Can isosorbide mononitrate cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Light-headedness or dizziness especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position | Getting up slowly should help. If you begin to feel dizzy, lie down so that you do not faint, then sit for a few moments before standing |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If the headache continues or is severe, speak to your doctor |
| Fast or fluttering heartbeat, feeling sick, and flushing | If troublesome, speak with your doctor |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store isosorbide mononitrate
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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