- No caffeine, decaffeinated or chocolate products for 24 hours prior to test. (This includes Tylenol #1,2,3, or 4, Excedrin, coffee, tea, soft drinks – both diet and decaf, and chocolate.) If unsure, it is best to avoid.
- Do not eat or drink 2 hours prior to your appointment, except for water.
- Bring an updated list of your allergies and medications (including inhalers). Let us know if you have asthma, COPD, or bronchitis.
- Your doctor may tell you to stop your beta-blocker, or calcium channel blocker, for 48 hours before the test (see list below).Only do this if you have been instructed to do so.
- No nitrates on the day of test. This includes Isordil, Nitro-Dur patch. you may use nitro spray if you are experiencing chest pain.
- The following drugs must be discontinued for 24 hours prior to your test. This includes Aggrenox, theophylline, Theo-dur, Assantine, Persantine, dipyridamole and caffeine.
- Bring at least one sandwich, snacks, and a water bottle for this test unless you can go out and eat.
This testing consists of TWO Parts over the 4 hours. **Remember no caffeine 24 hours prior to test. No food or drinks 2 hours prior to test except water.
You must be able to raise your left arm above your forehead for approx. 10-15 minutes to obtain adequate images of the heart. Notify the clinic if are unable to raise your left arm prior to your appointment.
Part 1: You will receive an injection via intravenous of a radioactive tracer. You will then have a 60-minute break before your first scan.
Part 2: You will either receive an injection or infusion (persantine, dobutamine) or a treadmill test to stress your heart. This is followed by a 60-minute break before your second and final scan. During this break you will eat and drink.
*If possible you will be encouraged to take your two breaks outside the clinic. We understand that this will not be an option for everyone.
Any questions, please contact 613-544-3242, ext 2
