Isosorbide dinitrate, available under the brand names Isochron, IsoDitrate, and Isordil Titradose, is a prescription medication used to prevent and alleviate chest pain (angina) caused by heart disease. It belongs to the drug class known as nitrates. Isosorbide dinitrate works by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart muscle, and reducing the workload on the heart.

Please note that isosorbide dinitrate is available by prescription and should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider.

Isosorbide dinitrate is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of chest pain (angina) in individuals with heart disease.

Angina is chest pain caused by a lack of oxygen-rich blood flow to the heart. Angina is not a condition; instead, it is a symptom of coronary artery disease or clogged blood vessels that go to and from the heart. Angina is common but hard to differentiate from other types of chest pain (such as indigestion).

Common symptoms of angina include:

• Pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest
  
• Pain in arms, neck, shoulders, jaw, or back
  
• Dizziness
  
• Fatigue
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Excessive sweating
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
  

This medication helps widen the blood vessels, allowing more blood and oxygen to reach the heart muscle, which can relieve angina symptoms.

It is also used in combination with the medication hydralazine to treat heart failure in African American patients.

While using isosorbide dinitrate, some individuals may experience side effects, although not everyone will.

Mild side effects may include:

• Headache
  
• Dizziness
  
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling sensation)
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Syncope
  
• Low blood pressure
  
• Low blood pressure upon standing up
  
  

More severe side effects may include:

• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Worsening chest pain
  
  

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about taking this medication.

Before starting treatment with isosorbide dinitrate, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with isosorbide dinitrate.

In particular, discuss any history of:

• Allergies to nitrates
  
• Low blood pressure
  
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
  
• Anemia
  
• Glaucoma
  
• Recent heart attack
  
• Recent head injury or bleeding in the brain
  
  

Isosorbide dinitrate cannot be used by those who take PDE5 inhibitors such as tadalafil, sildenafil, and vardenafil. It can cause an unsafe and severe drop in blood pressure.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using isosorbide dinitrate to assess potential risks and benefits.

The recommended dosage of isosorbide dinitrate may vary depending on the individual's condition and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and administration instructions.

Isosorbide dinitrate is typically taken orally in tablet or capsule form usually two to three times a day. Following your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosing and any other recommendations related to taking isosorbide dinitrate is crucial. Do not discontinue or alter your dosage without consulting your doctor.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of isosorbide dinitrate.

Isosorbide dinitrate is available by prescription only. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this medication.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can assess your eligibility and prescribe isosorbide dinitrate if it's appropriate for your medical condition and needs. You can arrange for pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether isosorbide dinitrate might be right for you.

Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.