Use of landiolol hydrochloride, a new β-blocker, in coronary computed tomography angiography

We investigated the usefulness of landiolol hydrochloride, an ultrashort-acting beta(1)-selective agent, for coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). Intravenous landiolol was administered to 133 patients before coronary CTA. Hemodynamic changes, adverse effects, image quality, and diagnostic accuracy for detection of coronary stenoses were evaluated. HR was significantly reduced during injection, but quickly recovered after cessation of landiolol. Neither significant changes in BP nor adverse effects were seen. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of coronary CTA for detection of significant stenoses were excellent, compared with invasive angiography. Therefore, our results show that intravenous landiolol administration gives a favorable image quality and facilitates diagnostic accuracy without causing adverse effects, indicating that landiolol is a useful premedication for coronary CTA. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.