Dixanol 320

Indications

Iodixanol is an iodine-containing contrast medium (dye) used to make blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, urinary tract and other organs show up clearly on X-ray based imaging, such as CT scans, angiography (imaging of blood vessels), coronary angiography and urography.

How It Works

Iodine blocks X-rays. When Iodixanol fills blood vessels or organs, those areas appear white on the images, giving a clear outline. Iodixanol is iso-osmolar, meaning it has about the same concentration as blood, which tends to cause less discomfort and fluid shift than older contrast agents. It is removed unchanged by the kidneys, mostly within 24 hours.

Dosage and Administration

Iodixanol is given by a doctor, nurse or radiographer in the imaging department, usually by injection into a vein or artery, and sometimes into body cavities. The amount depends on the test, body weight and kidney function, as prescribed. You will usually be asked to drink plenty of fluids before and after the test.

Interactions

• Metformin: may need to be paused around the time of the test in people with reduced kidney function, due to risk of lactic acidosis.
• Interleukin-2 (Aldesleukin) treatment: higher risk of delayed skin and allergic-type reactions.
• Beta blockers: allergic reactions may be more severe and harder to treat.
• Medicines harmful to the kidneys, such as some antibiotics, NSAIDs or chemotherapy: may add to kidney strain.
• Iodine contrast affects thyroid tests and radioactive iodine treatment for several weeks.

Contraindications

• Previous severe reaction to Iodixanol or other iodinated contrast.
• Overt, untreated hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Side Effects

A feeling of warmth, a metallic taste, nausea and mild discomfort at the injection site are common. Some people get itching, hives or a delayed skin rash that appears hours to days later. Less often, contrast can worsen kidney function (contrast-induced kidney injury), especially in people with existing kidney disease, diabetes or dehydration. Rarely, severe allergic reactions or thyroid problems occur.

Get urgent medical help if you have difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, fainting, chest pain, a severe or blistering skin rash, or passing much less urine in the days after the test.

Pregnancy and Lactation

It is used in pregnancy only if the scan is essential; the baby's thyroid may be checked after birth. Very little passes into breast milk, and breastfeeding can usually continue normally.

Precautions and Warnings

• Tell the team about kidney disease, diabetes, asthma, allergies, thyroid disease, heart disease, myeloma or previous contrast reactions.
• Kidney function may be checked before the test.
• Stay well hydrated.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely because the dose is given by health professionals. Too much may strain the kidneys and heart; dialysis can remove the contrast if needed.

Therapeutic Class

Iodinated, non-ionic, iso-osmolar X-ray contrast medium.

Storage

Hospital product: store as directed on the pack, usually below 30°C, protected from light.