What is the mechanism of action for Isosorbide Mononitrate?

Isosorbide Mononitrate is a medication that primarily functions as a vasodilator. Its mechanism of action involves the conversion to nitric oxide in the body, which leads to an increase in cyclic GMP levels in vascular smooth muscle cells. This increase in cyclic GMP causes relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle, resulting in vasodilation.

By promoting vasodilation, Isosorbide Mononitrate effectively reduces preload and decreases myocardial oxygen demand, making it particularly useful in the management of angina pectoris and heart failure. This action helps improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, alleviating symptoms associated with coronary artery disease.

The other listed mechanisms do not accurately describe the action of Isosorbide Mononitrate. Inhibiting calcium channels (which may apply to other cardiovascular agents) or acting as a beta-blocker pertains to different classes of drugs. Additionally, blocking angiotensin II receptors is characteristic of certain antihypertensive agents, not Isosorbide Mononitrate, thereby reinforcing the correctness of the choice concerning its mechanism of action.