ioversol

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

What is ioversol?

Ioversol is a radiopaque contrast agent. Ioversol contains iodine, a substance that absorbs x-rays. 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.

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

Ioversol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

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

• symptoms of an overactive thyroid.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• any type of reaction to another contrast agent
• liver or kidney disease;
• a stroke, blood clot, or coronary artery disease (hardened arteries);
• a seizure;
• heart disease, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure;
• diabetes;
• homocystinuria;
• sickle cell anemia;
• asthma, hay fever, food allergies;
• multiple myeloma (bone cancer);
• pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland);
• a thyroid disorder; or
• if you are dehydrated.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

How is ioversol given?

Ioversol is given as an infusion into a vein or artery. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Older adults may need special care to avoid becoming dehydrated. Your kidney function may need to be checked after you have received ioversol.

Children younger than 3 years may need to have their thyroid function checked after exposure to ioversol. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when ioversol is injected.

Ioversol can cause unusual results with certain medical tests for up to 16 days after you receive this medicine. For up to 8 weeks after you receive ioversol, your body may not respond as well as usual to radioactive iodine thyroid treatment. Tell any doctor who treats you that you have recently received ioversol.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur. You will be watched closely for any signs of an overdose.

What should I avoid after receiving ioversol?

What are the possible side effects of ioversol?

Some of the side effects of ioversol can occur up to 24 hours after you receive the medication.

• trouble breathing;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• slow heartbeats;
• unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness;
• a skin rash;
• pain, bleeding, or skin changes where the injection was given;
• sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body), problems with vision or speech;
• chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder; or
• kidney problems --little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath.

Side effects may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effect may include nausea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect ioversol?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, especially:

• diabetes medicine that contains metformin.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect ioversol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about ioversol.