Medications and Drugs

Brand Names: Iopamidol-370, Isovue-300, Isovue-370

Generic Name: iopamidol (Pronunciation: eye oh PAM ih dol)

What is iopamidol (Iopamidol-370, Isovue-300, Isovue-370)?

Iopamidol is in a group of drugs called radiopaque (RAY dee oh payk) contrast agents. Iopamidol 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.

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

Iopamidol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of iopamidol (Iopamidol-370, Isovue-300, Isovue-370)?

Some of the side effects of iopamidol 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:

urinating less than usual or not at all;
severe headache lasting several days, especially if you also have nausea and vomiting;
seizure (convulsions);
feeling light-headed, fainting;
uneven heartbeat;
wheezing or trouble breathing;
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
severe swelling of the glands in your neck or jaw; or
pain, tenderness, redness, or skin changes where the medicine was injected.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

headache;
nausea, vomiting;
joint or muscle pain;
back ache, stiff neck;
numbness, warmth, or tingly feeling;
burning or tingling pain in your lower back, buttocks, or the back of your leg;
ringing in your ears;
increased sweating, itchy skin;
chills, stuffy nose, sneezing;
problems with your vision or hearing; or
confusion, slurred speech.

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 iopamidol (Iopamidol-370, Isovue-300, Isovue-370)?

You should not receive iopamidol 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 iopamidol. 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.

After receiving iopamidol you will be required to lie as still as possible and keep your head raised above the level of your spine during the test. Avoid abrupt movement or physical straining during your test and for several hours afterward. Too much movement can cause iopamidol to mix with your spinal fluid and increase your risk of serious side effects.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving iopamidol (Iopamidol-370, Isovue-300, Isovue-370)?»

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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.