Dipyridamole is used to evaluate coronary artery disease in patients who cannot exercise adequately before undergoing imaging techniques.
What is Dipyridamole?
Dipyridamole is a coronary vasodilator. It works by increasing blood flow to the heart, mimicking the effect of a regular exercise test.
How should Dipyridamole be taken?
Dipyridamole is administered by a doctor prior to imaging analysis.
Side effects associated with Dipyridamole
Among the possible side effects of dipyridamole include the following:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Redness
- Headache
- Nausea
It is important to contact a doctor right away if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Chest pains
- Confusion
- Rapid, slow or irregular heartbeat
- Weakness in one side of the body
- Convulsions
- Difficulty speaking
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Dipyridamole
Dipyridamole may cause dizziness, which can interfere with the ability to drive or operate dangerous machinery. It can also aggravated by alcohol.
Before taking this medication, it is necessary to avoid consuming foods or beverages that contain caffeine. It is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drug or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: theophylline, adenosine or anti-cholinesterase
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from asthma, angina, heart problems or abnormal heartbeat ( rapid, slow or irregular)
- You are suffering from severe muscle weakness
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Lastly, dipyridamole should not be taken by children.
