iopamidol Health Article

How is iopamidol used?

Iopamidol is given as an injection through a needle placed into the space around your spinal cord. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting during your radiologic test. The medicine must be injected slowly, so the needle will stay in place for 1 to 2 minutes before it is removed.

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. Some people receiving this medication have had reactions to iopamidol that did not start until 30 to 60 minutes after the medicine was first given. Your doctor or other healthcare provider may want to watch you during this period of time after your injection. This is to make sure you do not have any unwanted side effects or delayed reactions.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain thyroid tests. If you have such tests within 16 days after receiving iopamidol, tell the doctor in charge that you have recently received iopamidol.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since iopamidol is used only during your radiologic test, you will not be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine. Symptoms of an iopamidol overdose may include seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while receiving iopamidol?

Do not allow yourself to become dehydrated during the first few days after receiving iopamidol. Call your doctor if you have any vomiting or diarrhea during this time. Follow your doctor's instructions about the types and amount of fluids you should drink.

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 are the possible side effects of iopamidol?

Some of the side effects of iopamidol can occur up to 24 hours after you have received the medication.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• urinating less than usual or not at all;

• severe headache lasting several days, especially if you also have nausea and vomiting;

• seizure (convulsions);

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• uneven heartbeat;

• wheezing or trouble breathing;

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• severe swelling of the glands in your neck or jaw; or

• pain, tenderness, redness, or skin changes where the medicine was injected.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• headache;

• nausea, vomiting;

• joint or muscle pain;

• back ache, stiff neck;

• numbness, warmth, or tingly feeling;

• burning or tingling pain in your lower back, buttocks, or the back of your leg;

• ringing in your ears;

• increased sweating, itchy skin;

• chills, stuffy nose, sneezing;

• problems with your vision or hearing; or

• confusion, slurred speech.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.