ISORDIL 10mg (Isosorbide Dinitrate)

Description:
ISORDIL (Isosorbide Dinitrate) is a nitrate medication used primarily to prevent and manage angina pectoris (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease. It works by relaxing and dilating blood vessels, reducing the heart's workload and improving oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.

Mechanism of Action:
Isosorbide dinitrate is converted into nitric oxide, which activates guanylate cyclase, leading to an increase in cyclic GMP. This process relaxes vascular smooth muscle, resulting in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). The primary effects include reduced myocardial oxygen demand and improved coronary blood flow.

Indications:

• Prevention of angina attacks
• Management of chronic heart failure (as part of combination therapy)
• Off-label use in pulmonary hypertension

Dosage & Administration:

• Typically taken sublingually (under the tongue) or orally, depending on the formulation
• Must follow a nitrate-free interval to prevent tolerance

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Flushing

Contraindications & Precautions:

• Should not be used with phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil/Viagra) due to the risk of severe hypotension
• Caution in patients with severe anemia, hypotension, or increased intracranial pressure