Name:  Isosorbide 5-mononitrate

Synonyms:  1,4:3,6-Dianhydro-D-glucitol 5-mononitrate

Molecular Structure:  

Molecular Formula:  C₆H₉NO₆

Molecular Weight:  191.14

CAS Number:  16051-77-7

EINECS:  240-197-2

 

Isosorbide mononitrate is a drug used principally in the treatment of angina pectoris and acts by dilating the blood vessels so as to reduce the blood pressure. Isosorbide mononitrate is sold by AstraZeneca under the trade name Imdur, and marketed in the UK by Sovereign Medical under the trade name Chemydur. Isosorbide mononitrate is used for the prophylactic treatment of angina pectoris; that is, Isosorbide mononitrate is taken in order to prevent or at least reduce the occurrence of angina. Research on Isosorbide mononitrate as a cervical ripener to reduce time at hospital to birth is supportive.

Isosorbide mononitrate is the major active metabolite of isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN), and most of the clinical activity of the dinitrate is attributable to the mononitrate. The principal pharmacological action of isosorbide mononitrate is relaxation of vascular smooth muscle and consequent dilatation of peripheral arteries and veins, especially the latter. Dilation of the veins promotes peripheral pooling of blood and decreases venous return to the heart, thereby reducing left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (preload). Arteriolar relaxation reduces systemic vascular resistance, systolic arterial pressure, and mean arterial pressure (afterload). Dilatation of the coronary arteries also occurs. The relative importance of preload reduction, afterload reduction and coronary dilatation remains undefined.