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dipyridamole - injection, Persantine IV

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GENERIC NAME: DIPYRIDAMOLE - INJECTION (dye-peer-ID-ah-mole)

BRAND NAME(S): Persantine IV

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to test the heart for blocked arteries and heart damage ("chemical" stress test). In a normal stress test, a patient exercises to make the heart beat faster. Dipyridamole may be used if you cannot safely exercise enough to make your heart beat faster. It causes the blood vessels in the heart to open. Diseased blood vessels do not open as well as healthy vessels, and this effect can be seen in images of the heart that are taken during the test.

HOW TO USE: Avoid drinking beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, certain soft drinks) or eating large amounts of chocolate for 24 hours before the test. Caffeine can interfere with the effects of this medication. Certain medications (xanthines such as aminophylline/theophylline) can also interfere with the test. Ask your doctor for more information about what medications/foods/drinks you should avoid before your test. If you use any medications, ask your doctor about continuing to use them before the test.This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Health care professionals must follow all the manufacturer's instructions for properly mixing and giving this drug. If you have any questions about using this medication properly, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Before using, check this medication visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.Dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain at the injection site, nausea, flushing, headache, numbness/tingling, and dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: difficulty breathing/wheezing, fainting, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat.Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest/jaw/left arm pain, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, confusion, seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.