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Dipyridamole is an antiplatelet agent commonly used for secondary stroke prevention and as an adjunct to warfarin therapy in patients with mechanical heart valves. The drug also helps in evaluating coronary artery disease during pharmacological stress testing. This activity reviews the mechanism of action, adverse effect profile, contraindications, drug interactions, and clinical toxicology of dipyridamole, emphasizing its value in preventing thromboembolic events and its role in stress testing. Additionally, it explores emerging evidence on the potential use of dipyridamole in reducing restenosis following coronary artery stenting. A comprehensive understanding of its complex pharmacology allows healthcare professionals to tailor therapy to individual patient needs. This activity provides interprofessional healthcare providers with essential knowledge and practical tools to optimize dipyridamole administration, thereby emphasizing their crucial role in delivering therapy safely and effectively. By integrating evidence-based guidance, the program equips clinicians to deliver individualized care, minimize risks, and improve patient outcomes during dipyridamole administration. Objectives: Identify the FDA-approved and off-label indications for dipyridamole use, including stroke prevention, mechanical valve adjunct therapy, and pharmacological stress testing. Implement appropriate monitoring protocols of dipyridamole during pharmacological stress testing and thromboembolism prophylaxis to ensure optimal patient care. Select the appropriate dosage forms and administration routes of dipyridamole based on clinical indications and patient characteristics. Collaborate with interprofessional healthcare providers to optimize dipyridamole therapy, enhance patient safety, and minimize adverse events. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Signs and Symptoms of Overdose Due to its hemodynamic effects, dipyridamole overdose may present with symptoms such as facial flushing, sweating, agitation, weakness, and dizziness. Hypotension and tachycardia can also be observed.[38] Management of Overdose Aminophylline (50-250 mg IV push over 30-60 seconds) should be readily available for use in the event of urgent or emergent complications or adverse effects of dipyridamole. Administration should occur no earlier than 1 minute after the radiotracer injection is administered.[35] This intervention is particularly indicated for adverse reactions during pharmacological stress testing. Additionally, the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 800-222-1222.

When using dipyridamole for pharmacological stress testing, vigilant monitoring for clinical signs of adverse reactions is essential. In particular, vigilant observation for evidence of hypoperfusion during diagnostic testing is essential to help prevent severe adverse events. The entire interprofessional stress-testing team, including the cardiologists, nurses, ultrasound technicians, and other assisting personnel, must be knowledgeable about and actively assess for both hypoperfusion and dipyridamole-related toxicity. Pharmacists play a key role by reviewing the patient’s medication profile for potential drug-drug interactions and promptly alerting the team of any findings that may raise concerns. In addition to active monitoring, it is essential to have the necessary resources readily available to reverse induced hypoperfusion and prevent adverse sequelae. Maintaining an adequate supply of aminophylline, along with appropriate syringes, is essential to ensure timely reversal of adverse effects when needed.[35] Effective interprofessional collaboration among physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, technicians, and pharmacists is crucial for optimizing patient safety, improving outcomes, and minimizing adverse events.