Advice to patients (19) Isosorbide dinitrate and mononitrate modified release capsules and tablets
- This medicine is used to prevent attacks of chest pain (angina) and to relieve heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, so blood can flow more easily.
- The tablets/capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They will not work properly if they are crushed or chewed.
- Food does not affect this medicine. You can take it with, before or after food.
- It is quite common to get a headache or flushing when you first start taking this medicine. This usually goes away after a few days, but if it persists or is troublesome you should tell your doctor.
- A few people have dizziness, fainting or weakness with this medicine. Tell your doctor if this happens.
- After taking this medicine for some time, you may find that it does not seem to be working as well as it was. If this happens, tell your doctor. Do not increase the dose without contacting your doctor first.
This series of "advice tips" on commonly used drugs is written by
pharmacists from the Sussex Pharmacy Academic Practice Unit. It is intended
as a reminder of points to be made by pharmacists as they hand out dispensed
medicines. The list is not intended to be comprehensive but to cover some important
points.
By Carina and Duncan Livingstone
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