Beta-blockers for cardiac CT: a primer for the radiologist.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this article is to describe a protocol for the administration of beta-blockers for cardiac CT. A low and regular heart rate is necessary for optimal visualization of the coronary arteries on CT and can be achieved by the administration of medications.


CONCLUSIONS
Beta-blockers can be safely given, orally or IV, to most patients to lower the heart rate for cardiac CT. A protocol can be implemented and patients can be screened for certain contraindications to allow successful administration of these medications by radiologists.
Pannu
Harpreet K
HK
The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Alvarez
William
W
Fishman
Elliot K
EK
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D017023:Coronary Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008790:Metoprolol / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D008790:Metoprolol