Isosorbide 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. 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. Isosorbide mononitrate has a longer duration of action than nitroglycerin due to its slow onset of absorption and metabolism. First approved by the FDA in 1991, 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. 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.