Visugall

Indications

Iopanoic Acid is an iodine-containing contrast agent taken by mouth before an X-ray of the gallbladder (oral cholecystography), to make the gallbladder and bile ducts visible and to look for gallstones. Specialists have also used it short term to lower thyroid hormone levels in severe hyperthyroidism, for example before thyroid surgery.

How It Works

After it is absorbed, Iopanoic Acid is taken up by the liver and passed into the bile, which is then stored and concentrated in the gallbladder. The iodine in it blocks X-rays, so the gallbladder shows up clearly on the film. It also blocks the conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 into its more active form T3, which is why it can lower thyroid hormone effects.

Dosage and Administration

Take exactly as directed by your doctor or the radiology department. For a gallbladder X-ray the tablets are usually taken with water after a light, fat-free evening meal on the day before the examination, followed by no further food until the X-ray. Use for thyroid conditions is only as prescribed by a specialist.

Interactions

Other iodine-containing contrast agents given close together can increase the risk of kidney problems. It can interfere with thyroid function tests and radioactive iodine treatment or scans for weeks afterwards. Tell your doctor about cholesterol-lowering resins such as Cholestyramine, which may bind it, and about any medicines for the thyroid.

Contraindications

• Allergy to iodine or iodine-containing contrast agents.
• Severe kidney or liver disease.
• Severe stomach or bowel disorders that prevent absorption.

Side Effects

Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, a burning feeling when passing urine, headache and mild skin rash.

Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction (hives, swelling of the face or throat, wheezing or difficulty breathing, fainting), very little urine, or severe vomiting or diarrhoea.

Pregnancy and Lactation

X-ray examinations and iodine can affect the unborn baby's thyroid, so this test is avoided in pregnancy unless clearly necessary; tell the doctor if you are or might be pregnant. Iodine can pass into breast milk; ask your doctor about breastfeeding after the test.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell your doctor about kidney or liver disease, thyroid disease, previous reactions to contrast agents, asthma or other allergies. Drink adequate fluids unless told otherwise, as dehydration increases the risk of kidney problems. Thyroid test results may be affected for some time after taking it.

Overdose

Taking too much may cause vomiting, diarrhoea and kidney problems. Seek medical help and take the pack with you.

Therapeutic Class

Oral iodinated contrast agent (cholecystographic agent).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.