What is Imdur?

Imdur and the generic alternative Isosorbide mononitrate is used to prevent chest pain (angina) in patients with a certain heart condition (coronary artery disease). This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as nitrates. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels so blood can flow more easily to the heart. This medication will not relieve chest pain once it occurs. Also, it is not intended to be taken just before physical activities (such as exercise or sexual intercourse) to prevent chest pain. Other medications may be prescribed by your doctor for these conditions. Consult your doctor for more details.

medication.

• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily when you wake up. Swallow this medication whole with a half glass of water (4 ounces/120 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not crush or chew this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
• Although unlikely, when this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well and may require different dosing. Tell your doctor if this medication stops working well (for example, you have more frequent or worsening chest pain).

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: low blood pressure.

Also be aware that:

• This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication, especially dizziness and lightheadedness, which could increase the risk of falls.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, and flushing may occur as your body adjusts to this medication
• Headache is often a sign that this medication is working. Your doctor may recommend treating headaches with an over-the-counter pain reliever (such as acetaminophen, aspirin). If headaches continue or become severe, tell your doctor promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• An empty tablet shell may appear in your stool. This effect is harmless since your body has already absorbed the medication.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Fainting, fast/irregular/pounding heartbeat.
• Any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Imdur?

A: This medicine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall. Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol may increase certain side effects of Imdur (dizziness, drowsiness, feeling light-headed, or fainting).