This medication is used before X-ray imaging tests (such
as CT scans). Iohexol contains iodine and belongs to a class of drugs known
as contrast media or dyes. It works by adding contrast to body parts and
fluids in these imaging tests. Iohexol improves the images obtained during
a CT scan, so your doctor can more easily diagnose your
condition.
If your doctor directs you to take this medication by
mouth, read your doctor's specific instructions on when and how to take
iohexol before your imaging test. To make it easier to swallow, this
medication can be mixed with water, carbonated beverages, milk, or juice.
Your doctor or pharmacist should tell you the amount of iohexol to use and
how much liquid to dilute it in.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your
doctor. It is usually taken just before the imaging test. The dosage is
based on the specific imaging test, your age, and your
weight.
Drink plenty of fluids before and after the imaging
test, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
This medication may also be given by a health care
professional by injection into a vein, joint, the spine, or placed in the
bladder or the rectum. If given these ways, there are different precautions
and side effects to be aware of. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more
details.
Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, gas, or
headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your
doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of
urine)
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before taking iohexol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if
you are allergic to it; to other contrast media; or to iodine; or if you
have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients,
which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your
pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- asthma
- hay fever
- kidney disease
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
When taken by mouth, this medication is unlikely to pass
into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
One product that may interact with this drug
is:
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests
(such as protein-bound iodine test), possibly causing false test results.
Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this
drug.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Not applicable. This medication is given once before
your imaging test. It is important to take this medication at the time
prescribed by your doctor. If you forget to take the dose, your imaging
test may need to be rescheduled.
Store at room temperature away from light. Do not
freeze. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.