The FDA has approved a new drug called Cardiogen-82 (Rubidium Chloride Rb 82 Injection) for use with PET scans to evaluate blood flow in the heart muscle. This imaging test helps doctors assess patients who may have coronary artery disease, a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. The drug is given through an IV, either while you are resting or during a stress test that simulates exercise. The approval provides an additional tool for doctors to noninvasively check heart health without surgery or catheterization.
Cardiogen-82 is a generator system that produces a radioactive substance when mixed with saline. The dose depends on the specific infusion system used. For one system, the dose is 40 mCi (range 30-60 mCi). For another, it is based on body weight, not exceeding 60 mCi. Imaging starts about 60-90 seconds after the infusion and lasts about 5 minutes. There must be at least 10 minutes between rest and stress doses to allow the radioactive material to decay.
This approval means doctors have another option for diagnosing coronary artery disease. However, it does not replace other tests or treatments. If you have heart symptoms or risk factors, talk to your doctor about whether this imaging test is right for you. Your doctor can explain the benefits and risks based on your personal health history.
