Isosorbide, a prolonged-release nitrate medication functioning as a vasodilator, works by expanding blood vessels. It is employed to alleviate the intensity and frequency of angina pectoris, a condition characterized by chest discomfort due to reduced blood supply to the heart muscle. Additionally, Isosorbide is administered for the treatment of severe heart failure. Two variants of the medication exist: mononitrate and dinitrate. Isosorbide dinitrate is metabolized within the body to form isosorbide mononitrate, the active component of the drug.
Isosorbide can lead to certain adverse effects such as headaches, sensations of warmth (hot flushes), and episodes of dizziness. Moreover, there is a possibility of developing tolerance to the medication, particularly among individuals using extended-release formulations or patches. This could necessitate adjustments in dosage, frequency, timing, or even transitioning to an alternative medication.