Gadopentetate dimeglumine injection

What is this medicine?

GADOPENTETATE DIMEGLUMINE (gad o PEN te tate) is a contrast agent. It is used to diagnose abnormalities during a MRI.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• burning, pain, redness at site where injected

• changes in hearing

• changes in vision

• chest pain

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• pain, swelling, warmth in the leg

• problems with balance, talking, walking

• seizures

• signs and symptoms of kidney injury like trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• feeling of cold or heat at site where injected

• flushing

• headache

• loss of appetite

• nausea

• unusual taste in the mouth

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• asthma

• diabetes

• high blood pressure

• history of blood diseases, like sickle cell anemia

• kidney disease

• previous MRI with contrast or dye

• an unusual or allergic reaction to gadopentetate dimeglumine, contrast agents, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.