How you prepare

Your doctor should give you instructions about how to prepare for your CT angiogram. You can drive yourself to the appointment, and you'll be able to drive after your test.

Food and medications

Usually, you'll be asked not to eat anything for about four hours before your test. You can drink water. Avoid caffeinated drinks 12 hours before your test because they can increase your heart rate, which can make it difficult to get clear pictures of your heart.

Tell your doctor about the medications that you take. You may be asked to avoid or temporarily stop a medication prior to the test. If you have an allergy to contrast dye, your doctor might ask you to take steroid medication 12 hours before the procedure to reduce your risk of a reaction.

Clothing and personal items

You'll need to remove clothing above your waist, as well as jewelry and glasses, and change into a hospital gown.