iopamidol Health Article

Generic name(s):

iopamidol

Brand name(s):

Iopamidol-370, Isovue-300, Isovue-370

What is the most important information I should know about iopamidol?

You should not receive iopamidol if you have any type of active infection.

Tell your doctor if you have asthma, hay fever, or history of food or drug allergies, especially if you have had any type of reaction to another contrast agent.

Drink extra fluids before and after you receive iopamidol. This medication can cause you to get dehydrated, which can lead to dangerous effects on your kidneys. Follow your doctor's instructions about the types and amount of fluids you should drink before and after your test. After receiving iopamidol you will be required to lie as still as possible and keep your head raised above the level of your spine during the test. Avoid abrupt movement or physical straining during your test and for several hours afterward. Too much movement can cause iopamidol to mix with your spinal fluid and increase your risk of serious side effects.

What is iopamidol?

Iopamidol is in a group of drugs called radiopaque (RAY dee oh payk) contrast agents. Iopamidol contains iodine, a substance that absorbs x-rays. Radiopaque contrast agents are used to allow blood vessels, organs, and other non-bony tissues to be seen more clearly on a CT scan or other radiologic (x-ray) examination.

Iopamidol is used to help diagnose certain disorders of the heart, brain, blood vessels, and nervous system.

Iopamidol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving iopamidol?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of reaction to another contrast agent.

You should not receive iopamidol if you have any type of active infection.

Before receiving iopamidol, tell your doctor if you have:

• a brain tumor or hematoma;

• a recent head or brain injury;

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• kidney disease;

• liver disease;

• sickle cell anemia;

• multiple sclerosis;

• alcoholism;

• a history of stroke, blood clots, or circulation problems;

• asthma, hay fever, or a history of food or drug allergies;

• diabetes;

• multiple myeloma (bone cancer);

• pheochromocytoma; or

• a thyroid disorder.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive iopamidol, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether iopamidol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults may need special care in avoiding dehydration by drinking extra fluids before and after the radiologic test. Your kidney function may also need to be watched closely after you have received iopamidol.