Stress Myocardial Perfusion Study

 Stress Myocardial Perfusion Study

Nuclear Stress Test Prep

The Nuclear Stress Test is also known as the stress myocardial perfusion study. Below are lists of how to prepare yourself for the test. Please be aware of the medications not to take the day before and the morning of your test.

For exercise, Adenosine, Lexiscan or Dobutamine nuclear stress test:

Do not take the following medications the day before and the morning of your test:

  •     Acebutolol (Sectral)
  •     Atenolol (Tenormin, Tenoretic)
  •     Bisoprolol (Zebeta, Ziac)
  •     Carvedilol (Coreg)
  •     Cialis
  •     Diltiazem (Cardizem CD, Cardizem SR, Cartia XT, Dilacor XR, Tiazac)
  •     Felodipine (Plendil)
  •     Labetalol (Trandate, Normodyne)
  •     Levitra
  •     Metoprolol (Lopressor)
  •     Nadolol (Corgard, Corzide)
  •     Nifedipine (Adalat CC, Procardia, Procardia XL)
  •     Nisoldipine (Sular)
  •     Penbutolol (Levatol)
  •     Pindolol (Visken)
  •     Propranolol (Inderal, Inderide LA)
  •     Sotalol (Betapace) *Discuss with ordering doctor
  •     Timolol (Blocadren, Timolide)
  •     Viagra
  •     Verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan)


Do not take the following medications the night before your test:

  •     Dilatrate
  •     Imdur     
  •     Ismo   
  •     Isordil
  •     Nitro-Bid
  •     Nitroglycerin patch

Bring your blood pressure medications and inhalers (if applicable) with you the day of your test.

Take all other medicines that are not listed above with a small amount of water the morning of your test.

Preparation for the test:

  • No food or drink four (4) hours prior to your appointment.
  • Do not eat or drink anything containing caffeine for 24 hours prior to your appointment. This includes products labeled “decaffeinated” and all forms of chocolate.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking or jogging. No heels or sandals. Do not wear a dress, full slip or tight jeans.
  • Plan on spending 3-4 hours for the test. You may have short breaks between portions of the test. You may bring a snack with you (crackers, fruit, sandwich). After your stress test, you will be instructed when you may eat and rink.
  • If you are taking any of the medications listed below on the medication list, stop then as indicated.
  • If you are in atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, remain on ALL of your medications.
  • If you have diabetes, you may take ½ your dose of insulin/medicine with a small meal 4 hours before your test or bring your diabetes medication with you.
  • If you are pregnant, may possibly be pregnant, or are a nursing mother, discuss this with your physician prior to your exam.
  • If there are any questions regarding your medications or the test, call our office at 352-264-2500 ext. 318.
  • A 24-hour notice of cancellation is required. Without proper notification, a few up to $125.00 for the cost of all pre-ordered medication will be incurred.