What is the primary use of isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil) in medical treatment?

Isosorbide dinitrate, commonly known as Isordil, is primarily utilized as a vasodilator in the management of angina pectoris associated with coronary artery disease. Its main mechanism is to relax and expand blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces the workload of the heart. This is particularly useful in patients who experience chest pain due to inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle.

While isosorbide dinitrate may have effects on blood pressure due to its vasodilatory properties, classifying it strictly as a treatment for hypertension can be misleading. Its use is less about directly managing high blood pressure and more about relieving symptoms of angina. The other options, such as managing heart rhythm disorders, providing direct pain relief during a myocardial infarction, or lowering cholesterol levels, are features or goals of treatment that do not align with the primary use of isosorbide dinitrate. It does not influence heart rhythms, is not indicated for acute pain relief during myocardial infarction, and does not have a role in cholesterol management. Thus, the focus remains on its effective use in angina relief through vasodilation rather than serving as a primary treatment for hypertension.