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Isosorbide Mononitrate + Sildenafil

STOP — Contraindicated

FDA contraindication. Applies to ALL forms of nitrates — sublingual, transdermal, oral, IV. No safe combination exists.

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

Sildenafil (Viagra) must not be used with isosorbide mononitrate (a long-acting nitrate for chest pain). The combination can cause severe, life-threatening low blood pressure that lasts a long time because isosorbide stays in your system.

How it works (mechanism)

Same PDE5 inhibitor + nitrate mechanism. Isosorbide mononitrate is a long-acting nitrate — the interaction risk is prolonged. FDA sildenafil label contraindicates all forms of nitrates.

Practical advice

If you take isosorbide for chest pain, do not use Viagra or any PDE5 inhibitor. Discuss alternative approaches to erectile dysfunction with your cardiologist.

Timing

Take Sildenafil and Isosorbide Mononitrate as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If both are taken daily, maintain consistent timing for each. Many medications compete for the same liver enzymes (CYP450 system). Your pharmacist can advise whether spacing these apart would improve efficacy.

Risk factors

Higher risk for: elderly, those with liver or kidney impairment, polypharmacy (5+ medications), recent medication changes, or those with multiple chronic conditions. Consult your pharmacist for specific risk factors.

Symptoms to watch for

Severe dizziness, prolonged fainting, dangerously low blood pressure, heart attack symptoms

What to tell your doctor

Discuss ED treatment alternatives with cardiologist. If nitrates are used regularly, PDE5 inhibitors are absolutely contraindicated.

Safer alternatives

Discuss safer alternatives with your healthcare provider. They can recommend substitutions based on your specific health goals while minimizing interaction risks. Always bring a complete list of everything you take to your appointments.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Isosorbide Mononitrate and Sildenafil together?

Sildenafil (Viagra) must not be used with isosorbide mononitrate (a long-acting nitrate for chest pain). The combination can cause severe, life-threatening low blood pressure that lasts a long time because isosorbide stays in your system.

When should I take Isosorbide Mononitrate vs Sildenafil?

Take Sildenafil and Isosorbide Mononitrate as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If both are taken daily, maintain consistent timing for each. Many medications compete for the same liver enzymes (CYP450 system). Your pharmacist can advise whether spacing these apart would improve efficacy.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Isosorbide Mononitrate and Sildenafil?

Severe dizziness, prolonged fainting, dangerously low blood pressure, heart attack symptoms

Are there safer alternatives to combining Isosorbide Mononitrate with Sildenafil?

Discuss safer alternatives with your healthcare provider. They can recommend substitutions based on your specific health goals while minimizing interaction risks. Always bring a complete list of everything you take to your appointments.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Isosorbide Mononitrate and Sildenafil?

Discuss ED treatment alternatives with cardiologist. If nitrates are used regularly, PDE5 inhibitors are absolutely contraindicated.

Explore more interactions

Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).