Sydnopharm

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Sydnopharm

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Sydnopharm

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Molsidomine
Form Film-coated tablets
Pharmacological class Antianginal agent, Vasodilator
Origin Synthetic (Sydnonimine derivative)
Nature Single active ingredient prodrug

What Type of Medicine is Sydnopharm (Molsidomine)?

Sydnopharm is a cardiovascular medication containing the active ingredient Molsidomine, which is classified as an antianginal agent and a vasodilator. The substance is a synthetic sydnonimine derivative, distinct from simple nitrate compounds. It is supplied as a single active ingredient product primarily in film-coated tablets for oral administration, and its status is typically prescription-only (Rx). This medicine is recognized for its ability to maintain efficacy over prolonged treatment periods, distinguishing it from conventional organic nitrates that often lead to tolerance. This sustained action is a key differentiator in the long-term management of cardiovascular conditions in adult patients.

Composition and General Therapeutic Purpose

The fundamental purpose of Sydnopharm is to function as an effective anti-ischemic agent by reducing strain on the heart muscle and ensuring adequate oxygen supply. The active ingredient, Molsidomine, is a prodrug that generates an active metabolite capable of acting as a nitric oxide (NO) donor. This mechanism induces vasodilation, causing blood vessels to relax. By widening both veins and arteries, the drug reduces the volume of blood returning to the heart (preload) and the resistance the heart pumps against (afterload). Molsidomine is characterized as a vasodilator for use in adult medicine. This supports its role in the prophylactic management of issues resulting from myocardial oxygen deficiency, such as ischemic heart disease.

What side effects are possible with Sydnopharm?

Possible side effects and safety information

Sydnopharm's official safety profile is primarily characterized by effects related to its vasodilating action, as documented in regulatory sources.

Category Documented Adverse Reactions and Safety Notes
Common Reactions Effects classified as common include headache, hypotension (low blood pressure), and flushing. These are often most noticeable at the beginning of treatment and may resolve spontaneously with continued use.
System/Organ Classes Adverse reactions are principally reported across Vascular Disorders (e.g., hypotension), Nervous System Disorders (e.g., headache, dizziness), and Cardiac Disorders (e.g., reflex tachycardia).
Serious Adverse Reactions The potential for severe hypotension is documented, which carries a risk of resulting in syncope (fainting). Rare adverse reactions, such as thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count), have also been reported.
Safety Restrictions Sydnopharm is contraindicated for concurrent use with PDE5 inhibitors (such as sildenafil), as this combination can lead to a marked and sudden fall in blood pressure. It is also restricted in cases of acute circulatory insufficiency or pre-existing severe hypotension.
Special Populations Caution is advised for use in individuals with hepatic impairment (liver disease) as clearance of the active metabolite may be reduced, potentially requiring lower starting doses. Use during pregnancy and lactation is generally not recommended or is listed as contraindicated in regulatory contexts.

These classifications, provided by government health authorities, establish that the most frequently observed effects are a consequence of the medicine's mechanism. The official constraints strictly limit its use in specific conditions to mitigate the risk of severe blood pressure fluctuations.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section describes the officially documented manifestations and required actions for Sydnopharm (Molsidomine) overdose, as defined by government regulatory authorities.

Overdose with Sydnopharm results from an excessive amplification of the drug’s vasodilatory effect.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Classification Official Regulatory Statement
Primary Manifestations Symptoms of prolonged peripheral vasodilation, including hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate).
Severe Outcome Risk The potential for circulatory collapse (shock) resulting from profound hypotension.

Required Emergency Actions

Immediate medical attention is required in all cases of suspected or known overdose due to the risk of severe cardiovascular compromise. The official regulatory guidance outlines specific procedures for management:

  • Hospitalization: The patient must be immediately hospitalized for professional clinical management and observation.
  • Patient Positioning: The patient should be positioned lying down (supine position) to assist in managing hypotension.
  • Treatment Approach: Management focuses on supportive and symptomatic therapeutic measures to counteract the effects of excessive vasodilation. No specific antidote for Molsidomine overdose is documented in the official prescribing information.

Therapeutic Uses of Sydnopharm

Sydnopharm (Molsidomine) is relevant for the supportive management of chronic cardiovascular conditions, focusing strictly on relieving symptoms and supporting functional stability. The substance is relevant for its established use in the management of Angina Pectoris.


Symptomatic Relief and Functional Support

Sydnopharm is generally applied in the prophylactic management of symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and are associated with Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD). It is commonly used to help with the potential for recurrent episodes of chest pain and discomfort, making it relevant for easing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain and typically limit a patient's exercise tolerance. This medication may be part of symptomatic management for conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including Stable Angina and Chronic Heart Failure.

The drug's application is relevant in providing sustained therapeutic support. This contribution assists with maintaining functional stability and enables patients to cope more steadily with symptomatic fluctuations over prolonged periods. This supportive effect contributes to easing distress during difficult episodes.


Quick Fact: Relief for Chronic Cardiovascular Symptoms
Primary Indication: Angina Pectoris, Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD).
Key Benefit: Contributes to easing the symptom load and assists with maintaining functional capacity.
Context: Used in the supportive management of recurrent, episodic symptoms.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Population Eligibility Rules

Sydnopharm (Molsidomine) is officially classified for use primarily in the adult population. The regulatory status defines strict eligibility criteria based on specific cardiovascular conditions, age, and organ function, explicitly outlining populations who must not use the medicine.

Category Regulatory Status
Populations Contraindicated Severe hypotension or cardiogenic shock; use of PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil); known hypersensitivity to Molsidomine or excipients [Source 1.2, 2.1].
Age-Related Eligibility Use is not recommended in children and adolescents (under 18 years) as safety and efficacy have not been established [Source 1.2].
Pregnancy/Lactation Status Use is not recommended or contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding [Source 2.1].

Eligibility is further restricted for certain physiological conditions. The medicine must be used with caution in patients with impaired hepatic (liver) function and requires careful consideration in those with renal (kidney) impairment [Source 1.2, 2.2]. It is also prohibited for use in cases of acute circulatory failure [Source 1.6].

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for Sydnopharm (Molsidomine) is defined primarily by its potential for severe pharmacodynamic interactions with other agents that enhance vasodilation.

Formal Contraindications

The following combinations are strictly prohibited (contraindicated) due to the high risk of excessive vasodilation, which may lead to severe, life-threatening hypotension:

  • Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) Inhibitors: This includes all PDE5 inhibitors, such as Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil.
  • Soluble Guanylate Cyclase (sGC) Stimulators: Co-administration with medicinal products that act as sGC stimulators (e.g., Riociguat) is formally prohibited.

Additive Effects and Restrictions

Co-administration with other substances that lower blood pressure is documented to result in a significant additive hypotensive effect:

  • Other Vasodilators and Antihypertensives: Molsidomine may increase the blood pressure-lowering activity of organic nitrates (e.g., Isosorbide Dinitrate) and major classes of antihypertensive drugs, including Beta-blockers, ACE Inhibitors, and Calcium Channel Blockers.
  • Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is officially noted to enhance the hypotensive effects of Molsidomine, increasing the risk of orthostatic reactions.
  • Antagonistic Interactions: The effects of Molsidomine are documented to be antagonized by co-administration with Ergolines.

Exposure and Population-Specific Notes

Molsidomine’s systemic exposure is influenced by specific conditions, as noted in regulatory documents:

  • Hepatic Impairment: Clearance is officially documented to be impaired in patients with liver disease, resulting in increased systemic exposure (Area Under the Curve, AUC) of the drug and its active metabolite.
  • Renal Impairment and Elderly: Caution is noted in individuals with severe kidney dysfunction due to the primary role of renal excretion in metabolite elimination. In the elderly, a prolonged elimination half-life is officially noted, also contributing to increased systemic exposure.

Mechanism of Action

Sydnopharm's mechanism is defined by its role as a prodrug that generates the active metabolite, linsidomine (SIN-1). The prodrug mechanism involves SIN-1 undergoing non-enzymatic decomposition to liberate Nitric Oxide (NO), a gaseous signaling molecule. This independence from enzymatic cofactors means the release of Nitric Oxide is continuous and not limited by specific enzyme saturation or cofactor depletion.

Non-Enzymatic NO Release and cGMP Pathway Activation

The primary mechanism involves the released NO binding to and activating the enzyme soluble Guanylate Cyclase (sGC) in target cells. This engagement increases levels of the second messenger cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP). This molecular cascade involves elevated cGMP initiating the cellular response, leading to a reduction in intracellular calcium ( Ca^2+).

Modulation of Vascular Tone and Antiplatelet Activity

The resulting decrease in Ca^2+ causes vascular smooth muscle relaxation across the circulatory system (vasodilation), with a more significant effect on veins (venodilation). This physiological consequence reduces the volume of blood returning to the heart (preload) and the resistance the heart pumps against (afterload). Concurrently, the cGMP increase inhibits processes necessary for platelet aggregation.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Sydnopharm

Sydnopharm (Molsidomine) is generally administered via the oral route for the long-term, continuous management of certain cardiovascular conditions. The drug is available in distinct tablet formulations, including immediate-release and sustained-release forms, which dictate the necessary frequency of administration.


Dosing and Frequency Principles

Administration begins with a low starting dose, typically 1 mg to 2 mg of the immediate-release formulation. The total maintenance dose usually ranges from 3 mg to 12 mg per day, and this daily amount should not exceed the official maximum recommended dose of 12 mg orally.

Formulation Standard Frequency Pattern
Immediate-Release Tablets Administered two to three times daily in divided doses.
Sustained-Release Tablets Administered once daily for continuous effect.

Administration Context and Adjustments

For most patients, Molsidomine tablets may be taken with or without food, given that absorption is not significantly affected by meals. Consistent scheduling is key to maintaining therapeutic levels. When administering the sustained-release tablets, it is a crucial procedural condition that the tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed, to ensure the time-release mechanism functions as intended.

Specific dosage modifications are an integral part of the usage protocol for certain populations. A lower starting dose and cautious adjustment are required for individuals with hepatic impairment, as the drug undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver. Abrupt discontinuation of the medicine is generally to be avoided as a standard use principle for long-term therapy.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence for use in Stable Angina Pectoris

Research exploring Sydnopharm has focused primarily on studies conducted in patients with Stable Angina Pectoris, a condition characterized by episodic manifestations of chest discomfort. Studies were conducted using rigorous Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), including those with a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, in adult patients with coronary artery disease. This research examined how the medicine was observed during treatment periods, with some trials also including another active compound for comparison. The research here contributes to understanding symptom patterns and how symptoms evolved in the observed populations.

Research was conducted in studies examining patient-reported experiences and monitoring outcomes related to physical discomfort and functional imbalance. These studies monitored outcomes related to symptom frequency, such as the number of anginal attacks reported. They also tracked other measurements, including the recorded consumption of sublingual nitrates. Research has explored the medicine’s use in patients receiving it as an addition to other standard treatments, such as beta-blockers.


Functional Outcomes and Symptom Tracking in Clinical Trials

The main research focused on outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level. Researchers primarily measured functional capacity using specialized exercise tests conducted over defined time intervals. These studies examined parameters such as the patient’s total exercise duration and the maximum workload achieved before certain cardiac changes occurred. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies regarding these functional outcomes, especially in short-term assessments.

Beyond functional testing, research examined patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and other outcomes capturing phases of heightened symptom activity. These measurements of symptom intensity or variability were collected for the research record. Studies that explored the medicine against a placebo generally monitored and described short-term changes in these key functional and symptomatic measurements.


Long-term Study Designs and Sustained Observation

While many studies were short-term, research explored the medicine in long-term designs that extended treatment and follow-up for up to one year. These extended-duration trials were designed to examine the persistence of measured outcomes. Research also monitored physiological outcomes, such as specific indices of endothelial function.

However, long-term effects are not fully established, and certainty remains low for some of the complex physiological markers studied. For instance, findings were mixed in some long-term studies that used specific surrogate markers as their primary goal. The evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns over time but follow-up durations were limited.


Evidence for Specific Populations and Treatment Contexts

The core research examining Sydnopharm was evaluated in adult patients with Stable Angina Pectoris and documented Coronary Artery Disease. The study populations often included patients with comorbidities who were already receiving other standard cardiovascular medications. Studies were designed to provide context for the use of this medicine as part of a combination regimen.

Data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, the sample sizes were modest in some of the earlier functional studies, and limited information for long-term outcomes is available for highly specific subgroups of adult patients. Research provides context but not individual predictions, and the results apply only to the populations studied within the trial setting.


What Research Gaps and Uncertainties Remain

Evidence highlights what is known—and what is still uncertain—about this medicine. A primary gap in the research landscape is the limited evidence focusing on hard clinical endpoints, such as mortality or major adverse cardiovascular events. Research was primarily designed to examine symptomatic relief and functional capacity, rather than major event reduction.

Furthermore, evidence quality varies across studies, and the interpretation of the long-term physiological data is sometimes uncertain. The data remain insufficient for specific ethnic or age groups that were not the main focus of the large-scale trials. These factors indicate that research is ongoing to fully characterize the medicine’s long-term outcomes.

Key Studies & References

  1. Molsidomine - MeSH Browser (D008981)
  2. Molsidomine - ATC/DDD Index - C01DX12
  3. Molsidomine, an effective long-acting anti-anginal drug.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Sydnopharm (FAQ)

Q: Can Sydnopharm be taken by older adults?

Official regulatory documents note that the medicine's elimination half-life may be longer in older individuals. This means the drug stays in the body longer, which can result in increased systemic exposure.

Official guidance notes that lower starting doses and careful adjustment may be considered for older individuals.


Q: Is Sydnopharm safe to take if I have liver problems?

The use of Sydnopharm requires caution in individuals with impaired liver function. The drug's active component is cleared by the liver, and clearance can be reduced in patients with liver disease.

Official guidance notes that the need for a lower starting dose and careful adjustment is generally required for individuals with hepatic impairment.


Q: What does 'contraindicated' mean in relation to Sydnopharm?

The term 'contraindication' identifies a specific situation or pre-existing medical condition where the medicine should not be used because doing so could potentially cause serious harm or a severe reaction.

When a drug is contraindicated for a patient, the medicine is subject to strict avoidance in these circumstances.


Q: Can I drink alcohol moderately while taking Sydnopharm?

Official product information states that consuming alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Sydnopharm.

This enhancement can increase the risk of hypotensive reactions, such as dizziness upon standing.


Q: What is the difference between the brand-name Sydnopharm and its generic equivalent?

Sydnopharm is a brand name for the active ingredient Molsidomine. A generic equivalent is a medicine that contains the exact same active ingredient.

Regulatory standards require generic equivalents to be considered comparable and bioequivalent to the brand-name product.


Q: Are certain medical conditions listed as reasons not to take Sydnopharm?

Yes. Official regulatory documents list specific health issues or co-administered products where the use of Sydnopharm is strictly prohibited (contraindicated), such as severe hypotension, cardiogenic shock, acute circulatory insufficiency, and the simultaneous use of certain other vasodilators.


Q: Does taking Sydnopharm affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Due to the potential for common side effects like headache, dizziness, and low blood pressure, the medicine may influence a person's ability to drive or operate complex machinery.

Official warnings indicate that caution is generally necessary until an individual is aware of how the drug may affect their abilities.


Q: Do I need to change my diet while I am taking Sydnopharm?

Official regulatory documents do not mandate specific changes to your overall diet while taking Sydnopharm.

The medicine is officially noted to be taken with or without food.


Q: How long after starting Sydnopharm will I know if it is working for me?

The drug’s active component is absorbed rapidly, reaching its peak concentration in the bloodstream in approximately one to two hours.

Clinical research has focused on monitoring changes in symptoms and functional capacity in short-term assessments to measure the medicine's effect.


Q: What if I accidentally take too much Sydnopharm?

Official regulatory documents contain information on the expected symptoms of an overdose.

These clinical symptoms are typically related to marked hypotension, which is an excessive drop in blood pressure. Standard medical management procedures are described for this situation.


Q: Does Sydnopharm affect blood pressure?

Yes. Sydnopharm is classified as a vasodilator, meaning it works to relax and widen blood vessels, and its main therapeutic purpose is to lower blood pressure.

One of the most common reported effects, especially when first starting treatment, is a drop in blood pressure, known as hypotension.


Q: Is it normal to feel a bit nauseous when first starting Sydnopharm?

Adverse reaction reporting includes gastrointestinal disturbances among the reported effects in some patients.

Feelings of nausea are known to occur as part of these gastrointestinal disturbances.


Q: Does the time of day I take Sydnopharm matter?

The official use instructions emphasize that consistent scheduling of administration is important for maintaining the necessary therapeutic levels of the medicine over time.

The required frequency depends on whether the immediate-release or sustained-release formulation is used.


Q: Why might a doctor prescribe Sydnopharm instead of another medicine?

The official regulatory profile notes that Sydnopharm is pharmacologically distinct from conventional organic nitrates.

It is known to maintain its efficacy over prolonged treatment periods without developing tolerance, which is a key differentiator for long-term management of cardiovascular conditions.


Q: Can Sydnopharm be crushed or split if it is hard to swallow?

Official administration instructions specify that the sustained-release tablet formulation is required to be swallowed whole and is not intended to be crushed or chewed.

This is because breaking the tablet would interfere with the time-release mechanism. Guidance specific to the immediate-release formulation is available from official sources.


Q: Are there different forms of Sydnopharm (e.g., tablet, liquid, extended-release)?

Sydnopharm is available in distinct tablet formulations for oral administration.

These generally include both immediate-release and sustained-release forms, which are designed to provide the medicine at different rates and frequencies.


Q: What are the official recommendations regarding stopping Sydnopharm?

As a standard principle for long-term therapy, the abrupt discontinuation of Sydnopharm is generally advised to be avoided.

Any necessary changes to the treatment plan, including discontinuing the medicine, are determined by established medical protocols.


Q: Can Sydnopharm cause fatigue or make me feel drowsy?

The official adverse reaction profile includes effects on the nervous system such as dizziness and headache. While fatigue or sleepiness may not be the most commonly listed effects, official warnings indicate that caution is generally necessary due to the potential for dizziness and other nervous system effects.


Q: What is the longest period of time people typically use Sydnopharm?

The medicine is generally intended for long-term, continuous management of chronic cardiovascular conditions.

Clinical research has documented the use and safety profile of the medicine in formal studies that extended treatment and follow-up for periods up to one year.


Q: Is it common for people to stop taking Sydnopharm due to side effects?

Early clinical research noted that discontinuation of treatment due to adverse reactions was reported in a small percentage of study participants.

Gastrointestinal issues and headache were among the side effects cited as reasons for interruption in some of these initial studies.


Q: Why is Sydnopharm sometimes prescribed for more than one condition?

Sydnopharm is officially recognized for its role in the prophylactic (preventative) management of conditions caused by myocardial oxygen deficiency.

While its core focus is stable angina pectoris, official sources may also list its use in association with left heart failure and acute myocardial infarction.


Q: What are the main ingredients in Sydnopharm besides the active substance?

Besides the active substance, Molsidomine, the tablets contain various inactive ingredients known as excipients.

Official regulatory documents list all of these excipients, and any ingredient that may have a known effect is highlighted in the safety information.

How should Sydnopharm be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Sydnopharm?

This section details the official storage, handling, and disposal requirements as mandated by regulatory authorities.

Storage & Disposal Requirement Official Constraints
Storage Temperature Store below 25 C or 30 C, depending on the labeled stability data. Do not refrigerate or freeze unless explicitly stated on the packaging.
Environmental Protection Keep Sydnopharm in its original package to protect the medicine from environmental factors, such as light and moisture, which can affect stability.
Handling & Packaging Ensure the product remains in its outer carton until ready for use. Observe any stability periods stated for the medicine after it has been opened, diluted, or reconstituted.
Disposal Instructions Unused or expired Sydnopharm must be disposed of according to established local guidelines or national take-back programs. Do not dispose of this medicine via household waste unless advised by an official regulatory disposal procedure.

These requirements are defined to ensure the drug's quality and stability are preserved throughout its shelf life and to prevent environmental contamination through proper end-of-life management.

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

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