Isosorbide Mononitrate Pharmacology Podcast

The podcast focuses on isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur), a medication used for chronic angina prevention. The host explains its mechanism of action as a nitrate that causes vasodilation, primarily in veins, to reduce cardiac oxygen demand and preload. He discusses dosing, noting that the extended-release, once-daily formulation is most common due to tolerance issues requiring nitrate-free periods. Key adverse effects include headache, flushing, and dizziness. The host emphasizes that it is for prevention, not acute angina relief, due to its slow onset. Drug interactions with PDE5 inhibitors (like Viagra and Cialis), alcohol, and other blood pressure medications are also covered.