Isosorbide 5-mononitrate

Isosorbide mononitrate is an organic nitrate with vasodilating properties. It is an anti-anginal agent that works by relaxing the smooth muscles of both arteries and veins, but but predominantly veins to reduce cardiac preload.[L11698, L11743] Isosorbide mononitrate is an active metabolite of [isosorbide dinitrate]. Like other organic nitrates, isosorbide mononitrate acts as a prodrug for its active metabolite, [nitric oxide], which mediates the therapeutic action of isosorbide mononitrate.[L11743] Isosorbide mononitrate has a longer duration of action than [nitroglycerin] due to its slow onset of absorption and metabolism.[T28] First approved by the FDA in 1991,[L11743] isosorbide mononitrate is used for the prevention and management of angina pectoris caused by coronary artery disease; however, the onset of action of orally-administered isosorbide mononitrate is not rapid enough to offset an acute anginal episode.[L11698] It is available in oral tablets generically and under the brand name ISMO and Monoket. The extended-release forms of the drug are also available generically and under the brand name Imdur.[L11743]