This medication is used before a magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) scan. It belongs to a class of drugs known as
gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs). This medication helps the MRI
scan make clearer images, so your doctor can more easily diagnose your
condition.
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient
Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start this
medication. If you have any questions, ask your health care
professional.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a
health care provider. The injection is given as directed by your doctor.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and weight.
Nausea, unpleasant taste, or headache may occur. If any
of these effects last or get worse, tell your health care
professional.
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:
- kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine)
- pain/swelling/redness at the injection site
- swelling ankles/feet
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious
side effects, including:
- dark patches on the skin
- hardening/tightening of the skin
- joint stiffness
- hip/rib pain
- muscle weakness
- trouble moving
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 using this medication, tell your health care
professional if you are allergic to it; or to other gadolinium-based
contrast agents (such as gadoterate meglumine, gadoteridol, gadoxetate
disodium, gadobenate dimeglumine, gadobutrol, or gadopiclenol); 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:
- kidney disease (including being on dialysis)
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
Gadolinium can stay in your body for months or years
after getting this medication. Studies have not found harmful effects from
gadolinium if your kidneys work normally. For more details talk to your
doctor.
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.
This medication may pass into breast milk, but is
unlikely to harm a nursing infant. 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.
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.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function) may
be done before you use this medication. Keep all medical and lab
appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Not applicable. This medication is given once before
your imaging test.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic and will not be stored at home.