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Is Stress Test Advisable While On Atenolol?
Question: I am scheduled for a stress test on Monday. My doctor's office just called to tell me to suspend my atenolol for 48 hours prior to the test. Everything I've read online and every doctor I've seen has told me to NEVER stop taking the atenolol abruptly. I only take 25 mg every day and I'm able to get my heart rate up in the 130's with exercise. What should I do about this stress test?
Brief Answer:
preferably not to stop atenolol, but you can if the doctor prefersit that
Detailed Answer:
Hello , I a m Dr. Mody and I would be addressing your concern.
Considering your age of 53 , the minimum heart rate you have to achieve for validity of chest is 141 and preferably about 145 .
Now previously it was a trend for doctors to stop beta blockers and supplement it with another anti hypertensive till than as the patient could not reach target heart rate when on beta blocker and sometimes it mask angina . However the latest recommendation is to continue beta blocker .
So the practical middle way , if the reason why your are taking atenolol is underlying heart condition and you have angina , It's not wise to stop atenolol, but if you are taking it for hypertension you may substitute it with another medication as per your doctor till the test .
Dose of beta blocker is not relevant here .
Hoping I could help .
Let me know if any clarification is needed and I would be happy to clarify.
Do rate for other people s reference.
Regards Dr Priyank Mody
preferably not to stop atenolol, but you can if the doctor prefersit that
Detailed Answer:
Hello , I a m Dr. Mody and I would be addressing your concern.
Considering your age of 53 , the minimum heart rate you have to achieve for validity of chest is 141 and preferably about 145 .
Now previously it was a trend for doctors to stop beta blockers and supplement it with another anti hypertensive till than as the patient could not reach target heart rate when on beta blocker and sometimes it mask angina . However the latest recommendation is to continue beta blocker .
So the practical middle way , if the reason why your are taking atenolol is underlying heart condition and you have angina , It's not wise to stop atenolol, but if you are taking it for hypertension you may substitute it with another medication as per your doctor till the test .
Dose of beta blocker is not relevant here .
Hoping I could help .
Let me know if any clarification is needed and I would be happy to clarify.
Do rate for other people s reference.
Regards Dr Priyank Mody
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