Medications to Avoid Before Myocardial Perfusion Imaging - Cardiology

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Before undergoing myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), it is crucial to manage medications appropriately to ensure accurate results and patient safety. MPI is a non-invasive imaging test that evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle, often using a radioactive tracer and stress-inducing agents. Certain medications can interfere with the test results, particularly those that affect heart rate, blood pressure, or coronary blood flow.


Medications to Avoid
1. Beta-Blockers: These medications, such as Atenolol (艾必克凝) and Metoprolol, are commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart conditions. They can blunt the heart's response to stress testing, potentially masking ischemic conditions. If a patient is on beta-blockers, they are typically advised to withhold these medications for at least 24 hours before the test.

2. Calcium Channel Blockers: Medications like Amlodipine (康肯) can also affect heart rate and vascular resistance. Similar to beta-blockers, these should be avoided prior to the imaging.

3. Nitrates: If a patient is taking nitrates for angina, these should be stopped 24 hours before the test as they can cause vasodilation, which may lead to false-negative results.

4. Caffeine: Caffeine can affect heart rate and should be avoided for at least 12 hours before the test.

5. Certain Antihypertensives: Other antihypertensive medications may need to be paused as well, depending on the specific protocol of the imaging center.


Specific Medications in Your Case
Based on the medications listed for your grandfather:
- 輸泌來錠 (likely a beta-blocker): This should be stopped before the test.

- 利普妥 (Lipitor, a statin): This medication does not need to be stopped as it does not affect the acute hemodynamics during the test.

- 艾必克凝 (Atenolol): This should be withheld for at least 24 hours prior to the test.

- 健安心 (a calcium channel blocker): This should also be stopped before the test.

- 康肯 (another antihypertensive): This may need to be stopped depending on its specific class and effects.

For the medications prescribed by the metabolic specialist:
- 注射胰島素: Insulin should not be stopped, but the timing of administration may need to be adjusted based on the test schedule and the patient's blood sugar levels.

- 彌可保膠囊 (likely a supplement or medication for metabolic conditions): This typically does not need to be stopped, but it’s best to confirm with the prescribing physician.

- 糖順平 (likely a medication for diabetes): This should also be discussed with the physician, as it may need to be adjusted based on the test timing.


Conclusion
It is essential to have a detailed discussion with the healthcare provider or cardiologist regarding which medications should be stopped before the myocardial perfusion imaging. The healthcare team will provide specific instructions tailored to your grandfather's health status and the medications he is taking. This will help ensure the accuracy of the test results and the safety of the patient during the procedure. Always follow the guidance of the healthcare professionals involved in the care.