IV Phentolamine
Reasons to perform the procedure:
Phentolamine is a medication that may be given intravenously to help diagnose your pain problem.
Before the procedure:
You will be informed where and when to report for the procedure. You may be asked not to eat or drink after midnight the night before. You will be examined by your doctor and asked to rate your pain.
Description of the procedure:
Your consent will be obtained, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed in your arm. Your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure…) will be monitored and you will be asked to rate your pain every five minutes during the procedure. You will be given the phentolamine test drug through your IV.
You will also be given a medication to control your heart rate since phentolamine can cause a short term increase in your heart rate.
You will not be told when the test begins or finishes.
After the procedure:
It will be determined how much the phentolamine helped your pain. Your IV will be discontinued, and you will be discharged home.
Potential Complications: (temporary)
- Low blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Decreased heart rate
Follow-up:
Your doctor will give you further instructions.
