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Does Propranolol Affect Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Test Results?
Question: Can propranolol affect the results of a dipyriamole nuclear cardiac stress test?
Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome on HCM!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that there is not any obvious contraindication for Propranolol continuation while undergoing a Dipyridamole myocardial perfusion imagine test (DMPI).
It has been shown by different studies that beta-blocker withholding (including Propranolol) before DMPI did not generally affect the sensitivity of the test for the diagnostic purposes.
Thus, Propranolol withdrawal for just the purpose of diagnostic imaging is not mandatory particularly when medication discontinuation may cause the patients to face increased risk of heart events.
Some concerns about possible aggravation of any present bradycardia while performing Dipyridamole cardiac stress test are raised.
So, if during chronic Propranolol use even a few episodes of bradycardia should prompt immediate decision for decreasing gradually the beta-blocker up to withdrawal if necessary.
In conclusion, I would summarize that though Propranolol is not directly contraindicated during Dipyridamole nuclear cardiac stress test, a careful discussion with your attending cardiologist and radiologist for properly weighing the necessity of Propranolol withholding form one side and the risks of any potential interactions from the other side (especially important bradycardia evidence) would be a rational approach.
That's my professional opinion.
Hope to have been helpful to you!
In case of any further uncertainties, feel free to ask me again.
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome on HCM!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that there is not any obvious contraindication for Propranolol continuation while undergoing a Dipyridamole myocardial perfusion imagine test (DMPI).
It has been shown by different studies that beta-blocker withholding (including Propranolol) before DMPI did not generally affect the sensitivity of the test for the diagnostic purposes.
Thus, Propranolol withdrawal for just the purpose of diagnostic imaging is not mandatory particularly when medication discontinuation may cause the patients to face increased risk of heart events.
Some concerns about possible aggravation of any present bradycardia while performing Dipyridamole cardiac stress test are raised.
So, if during chronic Propranolol use even a few episodes of bradycardia should prompt immediate decision for decreasing gradually the beta-blocker up to withdrawal if necessary.
In conclusion, I would summarize that though Propranolol is not directly contraindicated during Dipyridamole nuclear cardiac stress test, a careful discussion with your attending cardiologist and radiologist for properly weighing the necessity of Propranolol withholding form one side and the risks of any potential interactions from the other side (especially important bradycardia evidence) would be a rational approach.
That's my professional opinion.
Hope to have been helpful to you!
In case of any further uncertainties, feel free to ask me again.
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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