Introduction

Regadenoson (re-ga-DEN-oh-son)

Used for nuclear heart stress tests when the patient cannot exercise.

Brand Name(s)

Lexiscan

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to regadenoson, or if you have certain heart problems (such as heart block or a sinus node disorder) and do not have a pacemaker that is working.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using dipyridamole (Persantine®) before you receive this medicine. You may need to stop using dipyridamole for at least two days before the test.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using theophylline (Theo-24®, Uniphyl®) before you receive this medicine. You may need to stop using theophylline for at least twelve hours before the test.
• Do not take anything that contains caffeine for at least twelve hours before you receive this medicine. This includes medicines, foods, and beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and cola drinks.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have low blood pressure, breathing problems, or certain lung diseases (such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]).
• Tell your doctor right away if you start having chest pain, trouble with breathing, lightheadedness, or if you feel faint after this medicine is injected. You may be having a serious side effect from this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
• Shortness of breath.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Change in taste.
• Headache.
• Nausea or upset stomach.
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.