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Prescription medicine, banned in cosmetics

Isosorbide dinitrate (INN)

CAS 87-33-2
5

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

Isosorbide dinitrate is a prescription nitrate vasodilator for angina. EU cosmetics rules prohibit pharmaceutical actives, and its cardiovascular effects make topical cosmetic use unsafe.

Skin benefits

  • Prescription vasodilator used to treat angina pectoris
  • No cosmetic benefit

Known concerns

  • Classified as a medicinal product in the EU under Directive 2001/83/EC
  • Cosmetics Regulation Annex II prohibits substances classified as medicines
  • Systemic effects include severe hypotension, headache, and reflex tachycardia
  • Risk of dangerous interactions with PDE5 inhibitors

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.