Ismelin (Guanethidine Monosulfate) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 9, 2012

Ismelin

High Blood Pressure »

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure (HBP) or hypertension means high pressure (tension) in the arteries. Arteries are vessels that carry blood from the pumping heart to all the tissues and organs of the body. High blood pressure does not mean excessive emotional tension, although emotional tension and stress can temporarily increase blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80; blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 is called "pre-hypertension", and a blood pressure of 140/90 or above is considered high.

The top number, the systolic blood pressure, corresponds to the pressure in the arteries as the heart contracts and pumps blood forward into the arteries. The bottom number, the diastolic pressure, represents the pressure in the arteries as the heart relaxes after the contraction. The diastolic pressure reflects the lowest pressure to which the arteries are exposed.

An elevation of the systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure increas...

Read the High Blood Pressure article »

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Ismelin

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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Ismelin, guanethidine monosulfate USP, is an antihypertensive, available as tablets of 10 mg and 25 mg for oral administration. Each 10-mg and 25-mg tablet contains guanethidine monosulfate USP equivalent to 10 mg and 25 mg of guanethidine sulfate USP. Its chemical name is [2-(hexahydro-1(2H)-azocinyl)ethyl] guanidine sulfate 1:1.

Guanethidine monosulfate USP is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 296.38. It is very soluble in water, sparingly soluble in alcohol, and practically insoluble in chloroform.

Inactive Ingredients: Calcium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide D&C Yellow No. 10 (10-mg tablets), lactose, starch, stearic acid, and sucrose.

What are the possible side effects of guanethidine (Ismelin)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking guanethidine and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
irregular heartbeats;
heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling of ankles or legs, sudden weight gain of 5 pounds or more); or
chest pain.

Other, less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue to...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Ismelin »

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.