Lexiscan

Generic Name: regadenoson (re ga DEN oh son)
Brand Names: Lexiscan

What is Lexiscan?

Lexiscan is a stress agent that works by increasing blood flow in the arteries of the heart.

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

Lexiscan may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Lexiscan

You should not use Lexiscan if you are allergic to regadenoson, or if you have a serious heart condition such as AV block or "sick sinus syndrome" (unless you have a pacemaker).

Before you receive Lexiscan, tell your doctor if you have asthma or COPD, a history of heart disease, or high blood pressure, or if you have had an illness causing vomiting or diarrhea.

Slideshow: Top 10 Ways to Save on Your Medication Costs

Avoid drinking coffee or other beverages with caffeine for at least 12 hours before your stress test.

Tell your caregivers if you have a serious side effect such as chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, sweating, general ill feeling, wheezing or trouble breathing, slow heart rate, severe headache, seizure (convulsions), weak pulse, slow breathing, or fainting.

Before receiving Lexiscan

You should not use Lexiscan if you are allergic to regadenoson, or if you have a serious heart condition such as AV block or "sick sinus syndrome" (unless you have a pacemaker).

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely receive Lexiscan. Before you receive Lexiscan, tell your doctor if you have:

• asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease);

• a history of heart disease or high blood pressure; or

• if you have had a prolonged illness that caused vomiting or diarrhea;

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Lexiscan is harmful to an unborn baby. Before you receive this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether regadenoson passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Lexiscan without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

See also: Lexiscan pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How is Lexiscan given?

Lexiscan is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting.

After Lexiscan 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.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Lexiscan is given by a healthcare professional in preparation for medical testing, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, increased heart rate, and warmth or tingly feeling.

What should I avoid while receiving Lexiscan?

Avoid drinking coffee or other beverages with caffeine for at least 12 hours before your stress test.

Lexiscan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Lexiscan: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Tell your caregivers at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;

• slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop);

• dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, shortness of breath, uneven heart rate);

• seizure (convulsions);

• wheezing, trouble breathing; or

• feeling like you might pass out.

Less serious Lexiscan side effects may include:

• headache;

• dizziness;

• nausea, stomach discomfort, decreased sense of taste;

• mild chest discomfort; or

• warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin.

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.

See also: Lexiscan side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Lexiscan?

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially:

• dipyridamole (Persantine); or

• theophylline (Elixophyllin, Theo-24, Uniphyl).

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Lexiscan. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about Lexiscan.