Angicor

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Angicor

What is Angicor?

Angicor is a medication categorized as a calcium channel blocker. It is primarily utilized in the management of certain cardiovascular conditions, specifically those related to the regulation of blood flow and heart rate.

Primary Function

The active component in Angicor works by inhibiting the movement of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of the coronary and peripheral blood vessels and the muscle cells of the heart. By affecting these calcium channels, the medication facilitates several physiological responses:

  • Vasodilation: It helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, which reduces the resistance against which the heart must pump.
  • Improved Oxygen Delivery: By dilating the coronary arteries, it enhances the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.
  • Heart Rate Regulation: It can help slow the electrical conduction system of the heart, assisting in the management of certain irregular heart rhythms.

Therapeutic Use

Angicor is commonly used in clinical settings for the following purposes:

  1. Management of Angina Pectoris: It is used to prevent and treat chronic stable angina and angina caused by coronary artery spasms. By reducing the workload of the heart and improving blood flow, it helps decrease the frequency and severity of chest pain episodes.
  2. Control of Hypertension: It is utilized to lower high blood pressure, which helps reduce the long-term risk of cardiovascular complications such as strokes and heart attacks.
  3. Arrhythmia Management: In specific cases, it is used to control the ventricular rate in patients with certain types of rapid heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.

Mechanism in the Body

Unlike some other medications in its class, Angicor has a balanced effect on both the heart muscle and the vascular system. It effectively lowers blood pressure while also exerting a direct effect on the heart's electrical activity. This dual action makes it a versatile option for patients presenting with a combination of high blood pressure and specific heart rate concerns.

Regulatory References

  1. FDA DailyMed Label for Isosorbide Mononitrate
  2. NIH StatPearls: Isosorbide Mononitrate

What side effects are possible with Angicor?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Angicor, which contains Isosorbide Mononitrate, is formally classified based on its vasodilatory effects as documented by government regulatory authorities.

Frequency and System Classification

Adverse effects are categorized by frequency and the body system affected. The most common adverse effect is headache, officially classified as Very Common (ge 1 in 10 patients) in regulatory documents. This effect is often reported to diminish with continued therapy.

Effects classified as Common (ge 1 in 100 to <1 in 10 patients) primarily involve the Nervous System and Vascular System, including dizziness, hypotension (low blood pressure), and reflex tachycardia (increased heart rate). Uncommon effects include nausea and vomiting.

Safety Constraints and Serious Reactions

Certain effects, such as headache and hypotension, are most frequently observed at the start of treatment or during dose changes. The official labels note that severe hypotension may occur, which can lead to syncope (fainting). Methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious blood disorder, has also been reported with organic nitrates.

Population-specific safety notes state that older adults are more likely to experience severe hypotension and related syncope. Furthermore, Angicor is contraindicated with Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors (like sildenafil) and the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator riociguat due to the critical risk of severe, life-threatening hypotension. It is also not indicated for acute angina attacks and is constrained in patients with conditions such as marked low blood pressure, shock, or circulatory collapse.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section describes the documented manifestations of overdose with Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate) and the emergency actions mandated by regulatory authorities. The information is derived from official government-issued labeling.

Documented Manifestations and Severe Outcomes

Overdose effects are a consequence of exaggerated vasodilation. Official regulatory information lists key symptoms that include severe throbbing headache, flushing, and vertigo. The most serious documented outcomes are profound hypotension (extremely low blood pressure), reflex tachycardia (fast heart rate), and syncope (fainting).

A critical, potentially life-threatening complication noted in labeling is methemoglobinemia, which compromises the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. Certain patients, such as those with pre-existing congestive heart failure, may require invasive monitoring if supportive fluid administration is necessary to manage severe hypotension.

Required Emergency Actions

Regulators mandate that individuals who suspect an overdose seek immediate medical attention and urgent hospitalization for assessment. Management is primarily symptomatic and supportive, focusing on maintaining cardiovascular stability. No specific antidote is known for the drug's primary hemodynamic effects, though specialized treatment, such as methylene blue, is required for confirmed methemoglobinemia.

Therapeutic Uses of Angicor

What Angicor Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate or Dinitrate) is commonly used to help manage conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating symptoms related to physical discomfort. For its related chemical compound, the medication is applied in contexts where additional symptomatic support is needed. It is commonly used to help with managing recurrent chest discomfort and conditions involving heightened systemic burden, such as Coronary Artery Disease. This approach helps patients to cope more steadily with their condition and assists with maintaining functional stability.

Therapeutic Domains

Angicor is considered relevant in situations where symptoms may intensify temporarily, used in situations involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations. This application helps address symptom clusters that may appear suddenly or intensify over time, providing support that contributes to easing the overall symptom burden. It is commonly used during periods of increased physiological strain to assist with maintaining functional stability and contributes to improved day-to-day comfort.


Quick Fact: Relief for symptoms related to physical discomfort may be provided.

Regulatory References

  1. National Institute of Health's DailyMed database

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Angicor?

This section describes the population eligibility rules for Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate) as defined by official regulatory documents.

Populations Who Must Not Use Angicor (Contraindications)

Use of this medicine is strictly prohibited (contraindicated) for individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to Angicor, other organic nitrates, or nitrites. Use is also contraindicated for patients who are concurrently taking Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors (such as sildenafil or tadalafil) or the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator riociguat.

Eligibility and Restrictions by Population

Population Group Regulatory Eligibility Status
Adults (18+ Years) Established Use for the prevention of chronic stable angina pectoris.
Pediatric Population Use Not Established; safety and efficacy have not been demonstrated in children or adolescents.
Pregnancy/Lactation Conditional Use; used only if clearly needed. Caution is advised during breastfeeding.
Hepatic/Renal Impairment No Dosage Adjustment typically required for stable renal or hepatic impairment.
Comorbid Conditions Use with Caution is required for patients with hypotension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or recent myocardial infarction.

These guidelines define the populations who are eligible under standard labeled conditions versus those who require restrictions or are ineligible, based solely on official regulatory text.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate) is primarily structured around documented pharmacodynamic interactions that potentiate the drug's core action as a vasodilator. All information regarding interactions is strictly derived from authoritative government prescribing documentation.


Formally Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration with specific medicinal product classes is absolutely prohibited due to the risk of severe, profound hypotension and circulatory collapse. This contraindication applies to:

  • Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE-5) Inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil).
  • Soluble Guanylate Cyclase (sGC) Stimulators (e.g., riociguat).

Other Pharmacodynamic Interactions and Cautions

The label specifies that the vasodilating and blood pressure-lowering effects may be additive when Angicor is co-administered with other substances that affect blood pressure. Regulatory caution is advised with:

  • Other Vasodilators and Antihypertensives: Including calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, diuretics, and ACE inhibitors.
  • Alcohol (Ethanol): Consumption of alcohol may potentiate the hypotensive effect, which could result in marked symptomatic orthostatic hypotension or syncope.
  • Dihydroergotamine: Official documents indicate that co-administration may increase the blood concentration of Dihydroergotamine and its associated hypertensive effect.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of Isosorbide Mononitrate (Angicor) is centered on generating a gaseous signaling molecule that leads to widespread relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle, subsequently lowering the workload placed upon the myocardium.

NO Donor Activation of the cGMP Pathway

The drug acts as a prodrug and a source for Nitric Oxide (NO), which is released via enzymatic action in the blood vessel wall. This NO rapidly activates the intracellular enzyme soluble Guanylyl Cyclase (sGC). Activation of sGC triggers a cascade by increasing levels of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP), the key second messenger that signals muscle relaxation.

Modulation of Hemodynamics Through Vasodilation

The cGMP cascade leads to the dephosphorylation of the myosin light chain, causing vascular smooth muscle relaxation and resulting in pronounced vasodilation, primarily of the veins. This preferential venodilation causes blood to pool in the periphery, which reduces the volume and pressure of blood returning to the heart (Preload). The decrease in myocardial oxygen demand results from the lessened mechanical tension on the heart muscle walls.

Mechanism Constraints and Tolerance

The efficacy of the mechanism is subject to nitrate tolerance (tachyphylaxis), where the anti-vasodilatory effect diminishes upon continuous exposure. This limitation is tied to biochemical constraints on NO production, potentially involving the depletion of necessary sulfhydryl groups required for the initial enzymatic release.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Angicor

Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate Extended-Release) is a prescription-only medicine for oral administration, with its usage pattern established to ensure consistent efficacy while preventing nitrate tolerance. The medicine is used only for prophylactic prevention and is not indicated for aborting an acute anginal episode.


Official Administration Guidelines

Angicor is typically available as an extended-release tablet in strengths such as 30 mg, 60 mg, and 120 mg. The standard adult regimen requires a single dose once daily, usually taken in the morning upon arising.

Usage Constraint Standard Instructions
Form Integrity The extended-release tablet must be swallowed whole with fluid and not crushed, chewed, or divided.
Tolerance Prevention The once-daily schedule is essential for maintaining a mandatory daily dose-free interval (e.g., 10 to 17 hours).
Dose Initiation For older adults, treatment initiation is recommended at the low end of the dosing range.

Discontinuation and Procedural Structure

The initial adult dose generally ranges from 30 mg to 60 mg once daily, with the typical maintenance range extending up to 120 mg once daily. The 120 mg dose represents the usual upper limit for maintenance. When discontinuation is planned, the dosage and frequency must be tapered gradually; abrupt cessation is not recommended.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence


Overview of Studies

Angicor has been the subject of research focused primarily on its use in managing chronic stable angina and investigating its effects in various cardiovascular conditions. These studies are designed to evaluate the drug's activity and tolerability profile in different patient populations.

Research has explored the drug's use in the context of chronic stable angina. Key Phase III trials have examined whether Angicor administration was associated with changes in measures such as exercise tolerance time (ETT) and the frequency of anginal episodes over periods of 8 to 12 weeks.

Findings reported an association between Angicor use and changes in these measured outcomes, compared to placebo. It is important to note that the findings regarding the magnitude of improvement across all patient subgroups have not been uniform.

Tolerability Profile Summary

Studies investigated Angicor's tolerability profile across the research population. Common adverse events reported in these studies included headache and dizziness. The incidence of serious adverse events was low across the controlled trial environments.

Research has also been conducted to explore the use of Angicor in individuals with certain comorbidities. Data from these sub-group analyses suggest the need for careful consideration, as the presence of severe renal impairment was associated with altered drug exposure in pharmacokinetic studies. Research regarding the drug's use in patients with advanced liver disease is currently limited.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Angicor (FAQ)


Q: How long does it usually take for Angicor to start working?

Angicor is an extended-release medicine, and official pharmacokinetic data indicates that the onset of its anti-anginal effect begins approximately 20 to 30 minutes after administration. The extended-release formulation is designed to release the active ingredient over a sustained period to help support the prophylactic prevention of angina attacks.


Q: Is it normal to feel tired after taking Angicor?

Official documentation for the active ingredient indicates that tiredness (asthenia) and fatigue are listed as possible reported side effects. While the most common effects are headache and dizziness, these effects may occur in some individuals when starting treatment. Such effects are described in the drug’s official safety information.


Q: Can Angicor affect my driving or ability to concentrate?

Regulatory documents include a general caution that side effects like dizziness, tiredness, or blurred vision might occur, particularly when treatment is first started. Patients who experience these effects should avoid operating machinery or driving, according to official guidance.


Q: Are there any major food or drink restrictions while using Angicor?

The official label specifies a caution regarding alcohol consumption, stating that it may increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of Angicor. No general restrictions on specific foods are explicitly listed in core regulatory documents for this medicine.


Q: How long can a person usually stay on Angicor?

Angicor is indicated for the long-term prophylactic management of chronic stable angina. Regulatory documents and clinical guidelines describe its purpose as sustained, continuous use to help manage the underlying heart condition. A specific maximum duration is not set in the official information.


Q: Is there a rebound effect if Angicor is stopped suddenly?

Official guidance advises that the dosage should be tapered gradually when discontinuation is planned. The gradual tapering is advised by regulatory documents due to the nature of the drug’s action and historical data regarding nitrate withdrawal, which includes reports of complications following abrupt cessation.


Q: Does Angicor interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Official guidance cautions against combining Angicor with any medicine that may also lower blood pressure. Some authoritative sources note that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be associated with worsening conditions like heart failure and are generally reviewed with caution during use. Paracetamol is typically considered safe to take with this type of medicine.


Q: Can people with kidney issues typically use Angicor?

Regulatory summaries generally state that Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate) is not known to significantly affect the kidneys and that patients with stable kidney problems should usually be able to take the standard dose. The regulatory summaries do not provide specific dosage information for severe or unstable kidney conditions.


Q: Can people with liver issues typically use Angicor?

According to official prescribing information, Angicor is mainly processed and eliminated by the kidneys, and no dosage adjustment is typically required for patients with stable hepatic (liver) impairment. However, research regarding advanced liver disease is described as limited in official documents.


Q: What happens if I accidentally take too much Angicor?

The regulatory profile describes that an overdose of nitrates can lead to severe adverse effects. The potential for profound hypotension (very low blood pressure) is noted, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as fainting, cold sweats, flushing, or a persistent throbbing headache.


Q: What research studies support the use of Angicor?

The evidence supporting Angicor is based on clinical trials that primarily examine its effectiveness in preventing chronic stable angina. These studies evaluate measures such as improvements in exercise tolerance time (ETT) and a reduction in the frequency of anginal episodes.


Q: Is it necessary to store Angicor in a specific way?

Yes, official guidance requires specific storage conditions. Angicor must be stored at controlled room temperature (e.g., 20 C to 25 C), kept in its original, tightly closed container, and protected from excessive heat, light, and moisture.


Q: Is Angicor the same as other medications for the same condition?

Angicor is a type of nitrate vasodilator whose active ingredient is Isosorbide Mononitrate. While it belongs to a class of medicines that includes similar compounds, its specific extended-release formulation and single-ingredient action are defined by its pharmacological profile.


Q: Is Angicor a controlled substance?

No. Official regulatory classifications confirm that the active ingredient in Angicor, Isosorbide Mononitrate, is not scheduled or classified as a controlled substance by U.S. regulatory authorities.


Q: Does Angicor require a special prescription?

Yes. Angicor is classified as a prescription-only medicine. It is not available over the counter and is dispensed only with a prescription.


Q: Is Angicor approved for use in children?

No. Official prescribing information states that the safety and effectiveness of Angicor in pediatric patients have not been established through clinical trials.


Q: Does taking Angicor affect blood tests or lab results?

Clinical studies have investigated the effects of the active ingredient on various markers. Findings indicate that Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate) did not have clinically significant effects on hemoglobin or platelet function over the study periods examined.


Q: Is Angicor commonly prescribed for conditions other than its main use?

The official indication, as defined by regulatory bodies, is strictly the prophylactic treatment of angina pectoris (chest pain). Official regulatory documents define the scope of use as strictly the approved indication.


Q: Are there different strengths or doses of Angicor available?

Yes. Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate Extended-Release) is commonly available in several different tablet strengths. Typical strengths include 30 mg, 60 mg, and 120 mg tablets. The availability of multiple strengths supports the established dosing regimen.


Q: Is Angicor used for emergency treatment?

No. Angicor is strictly a prophylactic (preventive) medicine intended for long-term use. It is not indicated for aborting an acute anginal episode because the extended-release formulation does not work quickly enough to provide immediate relief.


Q: Does Angicor interact with alcohol?

Yes. Official product information specifically states that the consumption of alcohol (ethanol) may potentiate the hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering) effect of Angicor, which could lead to symptoms such as fainting or dizziness.


Q: Is Angicor a blood thinner?

No. Angicor is classified as an organic nitrate and vasodilator. Its primary function is to relax and widen blood vessels (vasodilation) to reduce the heart’s workload, and it is not categorized as a blood thinner (anticoagulant).


Q: Are there any common signs that Angicor is working?

Angicor is intended for the prevention of angina. A reduction in the frequency and severity of anginal episodes indicates the medicine is achieving its intended prophylactic effect. Headache is also a very common side effect that may occur due to the drug’s vasodilating action.


Q: Is there a specific population that Angicor is particularly studied in?

Clinical research, including key trials, has been primarily focused on adult patients with chronic stable angina and those actively managing various aspects of coronary artery disease.


Q: Do official documents mention anything about Angicor and herbal products?

Official regulatory documents and patient guidance advise general caution when combining any prescription medicine with herbal products. There is no specific information in authoritative sources to confirm that complementary medicines, herbal remedies, and supplements are safe to take with Angicor.


Q: Can Angicor be used long-term?

Yes. Angicor is officially utilized and described in clinical guidelines as an anti-anginal agent for the long-term management of heart conditions, such as Ischemic Heart Disease.

How should Angicor be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

Angicor (Isosorbide Mononitrate Extended-release Tablets) must be stored at controlled room temperature, generally between 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with excursions permitted up to 30 C. The medication must be kept in its original container and stored tightly closed to maintain product stability.

It is required to protect the tablets from light, excessive heat, and moisture. This medication must be kept from freezing and should not be stored in environments like the bathroom. For safety, Angicor must be stored out of sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Angicor should be disposed of through a drug take-back program or an authorized collector when possible. If a take-back option is unavailable, the medication can be mixed with an unappealing substance, placed in a sealed bag or container, and thrown in the household trash. It is explicitly stated that medicine should not be flushed down the toilet or poured into a drain.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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