What is Adenosine?
Adenosine is a medicine that can be administered to simulate exercise in patients who are unable to walk on a treadmill. The medicine works by expanding the coronary arteries, increasing the blood flow to the area. This effect is similar to what happens during vigorous exercise. At Cardiodiagnostics, Adenosine is nearly exclusively used for those patients unable to perform the treadmill portion of a cardiac Nuclear Study.
Is Adenosine Safe?
Complications with the use of Adenosine in the performance of a Stress Echocardiogram are rare. Our staff is well-trained in the administration of this drug and its' possible complications. Possible temporary side effects of Adenosine may include headache, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, or chest discomfort. There some slight risks in the use of this medicine as with most medicines, however. Please speak with your doctor if you are concerned about the use of Adenosine for your test.
What To Expect.
An IV will be started in your arm, typically near the inside of the elbow. The first dose of tracer (Cardiolite) is then injected through the IV. After sitting in a waiting room for approximately 30 minutes while the Cardiolite circulates to your heart, you will be escorted to another room for pictures to be taken under a "camera" (a special machine that detects the Cardiolite in your heart muscle). For the pictures, you will typically be asked to lie on your back for about 12 minutes while the "camera" moves slowly around you. After moving to a treadmill room, electrodes (sticky patches) are placed in several locations on your chest. Wires clipped to the electrodes record your heartbeat (EKG) during the test. You will then be given the Adenosine medication to simulate 'exercise'. At peak 'exercise', a second dose of Cardiolite is given and more pictures are taken under the "camera". Highly skilled staff will be with you throughout the test. Please plan to allow 2-1/2 to 3 hours for your test.
If you have any questions, please call our nursing department at (719) 228-4235 or your doctor's office.