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Brand Names: BiDil

Generic Name: hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (Pronunciation: hi dral LA zeen and I so zor bi da din eye treyt)

• What is hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• What are the possible side effects of hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• What is the most important information I should know about hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• How should I take hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (BiDil)?
• What happens if I overdose (BiDil)?
• What should I avoid while taking hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• What other drugs will affect hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?

Hydralazine is a vasodilator. It relaxes (widens) veins and arteries, which makes it easier for your heart to pump.

Isosorbide dinitrate is in a class of drugs called nitrates. Isosorbide dinitrate dilates (widens or relaxes) blood vessels (arteries and veins). When blood vessels are dilated, it is easier for the heart to pump. Also, more blood, which is rich in oxygen, can flow to the heart.

Hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate is used to treat heart failure.

Hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• blurred vision and dry mouth;
• irregular heartbeat; or
• blood in your urine or stools;
• numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness of your arms or legs;
• fainting.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. If you experience any of the following side effects, continue to take isosorbide and talk to your doctor:

• headache or dizziness;
• flushing (redness of the face, neck and chest);
• nausea or vomiting;
• fast heartbeat;
• swollen ankles; or
• weakness.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate (BiDil)?

You may develop a headache because of this medicine, but do not stop taking it. Take aspirin or acetaminophen to treat the headache. Ask your doctor which is best for you. This side effect usually goes away with continued hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate treatment.

Do not stop taking hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate suddenly. Talk to your doctor before you stop taking the drug completely.

Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities.