What is ioversol?
Ioversol is in a group of drugs called radiopaque (RAY dee oh payk) contrast agents.
Ioversol 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.
Ioversol is used to help diagnose certain disorders of the heart, brain, and blood vessels.
Ioversol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ioversol?
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of reaction to another contrast agent.
You should not receive ioversol if you have any type of active infection.
Before receiving ioversol, tell your doctor if you have:
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a brain tumor or hematoma;
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a recent head or brain injury;
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epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
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a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
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kidney disease;
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liver disease;
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diabetes;
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heart disease, angina, or congestive heart failure;
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homocysteinuria;
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sickle cell disease;
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a history of stroke, blood clots, or circulation problems;
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asthma, hay fever, or a history of food or drug allergies;
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multiple myeloma (bone cancer);
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pheochromocytoma; or
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a thyroid disorder.
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive
ioversol, 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 ioversol 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 ioversol.
How should I take ioversol?
Ioversol is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this
injection in a clinic or hospital setting during your radiologic test.
Drink extra fluids before and after you receive ioversol. 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.
Your doctor or other healthcare provider may want to watch you for a short 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 ioversol, tell the doctor in charge that you have
recently received ioversol.
What happens if I miss a dose of ioversol?
Since ioversol is used only during your radiologic test, you will not be on a dosing
schedule.
Where can I get more information about ioversol?
Your pharmacist has information about ioversol written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of ioversol?
Some of the side effects of ioversol 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:
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urinating less than usual or not at all;
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severe muscle pain or weakness;
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seizure (convulsions);
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chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or
shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
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sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the
body;
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sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech,
or balance;
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feeling light-headed, fainting;
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wheezing, trouble breathing;
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fast or slow heartbeat;
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easy bruising, unusual bleeding, or skin changes; or
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swelling of your hands, ankles, or feet.
Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:
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fever, warmth, or pain;
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skin rash or redness;
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headache; or
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nausea.
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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about ioversol?
You should not receive ioversol 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 ioversol. 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.
What should I avoid while taking ioversol?
Do not allow yourself to become dehydrated during the first few days after receiving
ioversol. 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.
What other drugs will affect ioversol?
There may be other drugs that can affect ioversol. Tell your doctor about all the
prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal
products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without
telling your doctor.
What happens if I have an overdose of ioversol?