What is a side effect of isosorbide?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Hypertension: Isosorbide is a nitrate that works as a vasodilator, which lowers blood pressure. It does not cause hypertension; in fact, elevated blood pressure would be counterproductive to its therapeutic effect in angina management. B. Thrombus formation: Isosorbide does not promote blood clot formation. Its primary action is to dilate blood vessels and reduce myocardial oxygen demand, and it does not have pro-thrombotic effects. C. Chronic constipation: Constipation is not a recognized side effect of isosorbide. Gastrointestinal disturbances are uncommon, and the medication primarily affects the vascular system rather than intestinal motility. D. Hypotension: Hypotension is a common side effect of isosorbide due to its vasodilatory action. By relaxing vascular smooth muscle, it can lower systemic blood pressure, sometimes leading to dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing.