Echocardiogram (cont.)

What Should I Do to Prepare for a Stress Echo?

If you are scheduled for a dobutamine stress echo AND you have a pacemaker, please contact your doctor for specific instructions. Your device may need to be checked before the test.

On the day of the test, do not eat or drink anything except water for four hours before the test. Do not drink or eat caffeine products (cola, chocolate, coffee, tea) for 24 hours before the test. Caffeine will interfere with the results of your test. Since many over-the-counter medications contain caffeine, do not take any over-the-counter medications that contain caffeine for 24 hours before the test. Ask your physician, pharmacist or nurse if you have questions about medications that may contain caffeine.

Do not take the following heart medications for 24 hours before your test unless your doctor tells you otherwise, or unless the medication is needed to treat chest discomfort:

• Beta blockers (for example, Tenormin, Lopressor, Toprol, or Inderal)
   
• Isosorbide dinitrate (for example, Isordil, Sorbitrate)
   
• Isosorbide mononitrate (for example, Ismo, Imdur, Monoket)
   
• Nitroglycerin (for example, Deponit, Nitrostat, Nitropatches)

Your doctor may also ask you to stop taking other heart medications on the day of your test. If you have any questions about your medications, ask your doctor. Do not discontinue any medication without first talking with your doctor.

If you use an inhaler for your breathing, please bring it with you.

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Source article on WebMD

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/echocardiogram/article.htm