Lexiscan

Lexiscan is a stress agent that works by increasing blood flow to the arteries of the heart. It is given in patients who are unable to undergo adequate exercise stress test.

It is used in a test, to check coronary (heart) artery disease. It is given in preparation for a radiologic (x-ray) examination of blood flow through the heart.

It is available in the form of a solution and given only by a doctor or under the direct supervision of a doctor.

Before using Lexiscan, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it.

Before starting, your doctor should be informed about following conditions:

Allergy: Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to food, preservatives, dyes and animals or had an allergic reaction which occurred while using this drug before.

Children: There are no adequate studies done which prove Regadenoson’s harmful effects in children. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Elderly: They are more sensitive to its effects. In elderly patients, it should be used with caution.

Pregnancy: It is a category C drug. It is not known whether Regadenoson will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Breast Feeding: It is not known whether Regadenoson passes into breast milk or if it could harm a baby. Do not breastfeed within 10 hours after receiving Regadenoson.

Drug Interactions: Regadenoson interacts with many drugs. It should not be used with several drugs.

Your doctor should be informed of any other medicine which you are taking as he/she may change the drug or dosage.

Some of these drugs are:

• Aminophylline
• Dimenhydrinate
• Dyphylline
• Pentoxifylline
• Theophylline

Other interactions: Avoid drinking coffee or other beverages like cola drinks, tea and caffeine for at least 12 hours before your stress test.

Other Medical Problem: several other conditions may reduce its effectiveness.

Make sure you inform your doctor of conditions such as:

• AV block (Atrioventricular block) or sick sinus syndrome (unless you have a pacemaker).
• Asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
• Chest pain or heart problems.
• A history of seizures.
• A history of heart diseases or high blood pressure.
• If you also take dipyridamole or theophylline (you may need to stop taking it 12 hours before the test).
• If you have had a prolonged illness that caused vomiting or diarrhea.
• Hypovolemia (low blood volume)—May increase risk for the more serious side effect.

To use Lexiscan properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor.

Regadenoson is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

After Regadenoson is injected, you will be given other intravenous (IV) medications that allow blood vessels to be seen more clearly on the radiologic examination.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely during your stress test.

Before using Lexiscan, there are some precautions you must take.

Regadenoson may cause severe allergic reactions which can be life-threatening. Inform your doctor immediately if you start having rash, itching, fainting, palpitation and swelling of hand, face or mouth.

It increases the risk of heart failure, stroke in a patient who has a history of heart diseases. Inform your doctor immediately if you feel chest pain, discomfort, nausea, pain in arm, jaws, neck occur.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Lexiscan. Some people may experience none or minor side effects.

Consult with your doctor if they become problematic or frequent.

• Feeling short of breath.
• A headache, dizziness.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Nausea.
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).
• Symptoms of overdose.
• Dizziness.
• Feeling of warmth.
• Increased heart rate.
• Redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1 800 FDA 1088.