OLICARD

This medicine contains the active ingredient Isosorbide mononitrate which is a nitrate vasodilator. These medicines relax blood vessels in your body and in your heart, so it makes easier for the heart to send and receive needed amount of blood more easily. Isosorbide mononitrate  is prescribed for the prevention of angina pectoris (uncomfortable pressure, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest, or in the neck, jaw, shoulder, back or arm- this happens when one or more of the heart's arteries is narrowed or blocked, so the heart does not get enough blood to do its job).

Is Isosorbide mononitrate suitable for me?

Isosorbide mononitrate is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• If you have anemia
• If you have had a heart attack
• If you have heart problems
• If you have had a brain hemorrhage
• If you have had a head injury
• If you have a low blood volume
• If you have very low blood pressure
• If you have circulatory failure
• If you take Viagra or any other phosphodiesterase inhibitor
• If you suffer from “shock” or vascular collapse

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have increased pressure in the eye-glaucoma  
• have any serious damage to your heart
• have severe kidney or liver problems
• have an underactive thyroid gland
• are undernourished
• are suffering from hypothermia
• have slower than normal bowel movements
• are pregnant or breast-feeding

 Isosorbide mononitrate interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Isosorbide mononitrate?

This medicine is available in form of a tablet and prolonged-release capsule.

You should take Isosorbide mononitrate exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be prescribed according to your condition and needs.

• The usual dose for the tablets is 20 mg or 40 mg taken 2 or 3 times per day. The maximum daily dose is 120 mg.
• The usual dose for capsules is one capsule taken once a day, or it can be increased to two capsules taken in the morning.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. Also, this medicine works best if there is steady amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Isosorbide mononitrate side effects?

Like all medicines Isosorbide mononitrate can cause side effects, including:

Very common

• headache
• flushing.

Common

• low blood pressure,
• fast heartbeat,
• drowsiness,
• Sleepiness
• dizziness
• weakness
• swelling of the hands, ankles or feet.

 Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.