regadenoson at a glance
Medicine class
Selective adenosine A2A-receptor agonist and coronary vasodilator
Usual role
Diagnostic stress agent when adequate exercise stress is not possible
How it is given
Intravenous injection by a specialist team with cardiac monitoring available
Before the procedure
Avoid caffeine and tell the team about all medicines, particularly theophylline, aminophylline or dipyridamole
What is regadenoson used for?
In UK-licensed use, regadenoson is a diagnostic agent for adults. It is licensed for:
Pharmacological stress during myocardial perfusion imaging when adequate exercise stress cannot be achieved.
Measuring fractional flow reserve for a single coronary artery narrowing during invasive coronary angiography when repeated measurements are not anticipated.
How does regadenoson work?
Regadenoson activates adenosine A2A receptors in coronary blood vessels, briefly widening them and increasing blood flow. Healthy coronary territories increase flow more than territories supplied through a significant narrowing, helping identify functionally important disease.
regadenoson preparations and strengths
Injection
Route: Parenteral
Strengths: 400 micrograms
How to take regadenoson
Regadenoson is not taken at home. A specialist gives it into a vein in a facility with ECG, blood-pressure monitoring and resuscitation equipment. Remain sitting or lying as directed and report symptoms promptly. Avoid caffeine and methylxanthine-containing products before the procedure according to the appointment instructions; ask the department before withholding prescribed medicines.
Bring an up-to-date list of medicines and supplements.
Tell the team about asthma, COPD, heart-rhythm problems, seizures, recent cardiac symptoms, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Follow the department's food, drink and medicine instructions, as preparation can vary with the procedure.
regadenoson side effects
Common or expected effects
- Shortness of breath
- Headache or dizziness
- Flushing or feeling warm
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Stomach discomfort or nausea
- Temporary changes in heart rate, blood pressure or ECG
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe myocardial ischaemia, heart attack, cardiac arrest or a dangerous abnormal rhythm
- Marked low or high blood pressure, collapse or fainting
- Significant heart block or very slow heartbeat
- Bronchospasm or respiratory arrest
- Seizure, transient ischaemic attack or stroke
- Serious allergic reaction, including throat tightness or angioedema
regadenoson in pregnancy
Human pregnancy information is inadequate and potential fetal risk is uncertain. Regadenoson should be used during pregnancy only when clearly necessary. Tell the diagnostic team if you are pregnant or could be pregnant.
regadenoson while breastfeeding
It is unknown whether regadenoson enters human milk. Product information recommends temporarily interrupting breastfeeding after administration; the specialist team should explain when it can restart. Imaging tracers may require separate precautions.
regadenoson interactions
The procedure team should review all medicines, drinks and supplements beforehand. Important interactions include:
Caffeine and other methylxanthines
They block adenosine receptors and can reduce the vasodilator effect, potentially impairing the diagnostic test.
Theophylline or aminophylline
These can oppose regadenoson's effect; aminophylline may also worsen or prolong a regadenoson-associated seizure.
Dipyridamole
It raises adenosine concentrations and may alter or intensify the response.
Common questions about regadenoson
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Why must I avoid caffeine before regadenoson?
Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors and can weaken the coronary vasodilation needed for an accurate test. Follow the caffeine-free period specified by your appointment team.
Can I take my usual medicines before regadenoson?
Many medicines can be continued, but theophylline, aminophylline and dipyridamole require specific review. Do not stop prescribed treatment without instructions from the diagnostic team.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.