Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

DIPYRIDAMOLE - INJECTION

(dye-peer-ID-ah-mole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Persantine IV

Uses

This medication is used in addition to other medications (thallium) to view the arteries of the heart (myocardial imaging).

How To Use

Give this medication by vein (IV), over four minutes, or as directed by your doctor. Follow all directions for proper dilution with correct IV fluids. Follow all safety precautions for this medication. Do not mix dipyridamole with other medications in the same syringe or infusion container. Consult your pharmacist for details. Before using, check this medication visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

Side Effects

Nausea, flushing, headache, fatigue and dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: chest pain, fast/slow/irregular pulse. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion, seizures. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease (e.g., severe coronary artery disease, angina), asthma, myasthenia gravis, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or operating machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: xanthine derivatives (e.g., aminophylline, theophylline), adenosine. Avoid drinking beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas) or eating large amounts of chocolate 24 hours before this heart imaging procedure. Caffeine can interfere with the effects of this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information about dietary restrictions before this procedure. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., heart monitor, vital signs ) will be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If the dose is interrupted, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish new dosing.

Storage

Store at room temperature (77 degrees F or 25 degree C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not freeze. Consult your pharmacist for details regarding the stability of the drug after dilution in correct IV fluids. Discard any unused fluid.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).