Omniscan

Omniscan is a contrast agent used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and during X-Rays for diagnostic purposes. The agent helps to create clear pictures of the brain, spine, heart, tissues of joints and inside bones.

Patients who are scheduled to receive Magnevist should inform their doctors if they:

• are pregnant or breast feeding.
• have any blood disorders, like anemia
• have a history of renal or hepatic disease, seizure, asthma or allergic respiratory disorders

Potential side effects commonly associated with Omniscan are:

• dizziness
• head pain
• nausea

Less frequent and more rare side effects include:

• excessive watery eyes
• inflammation of skin caused by an allergy
• itching
• hives
• rash
• wheezing
• difficulty breathing
• giant hives
• Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
• chest pain
• widening of blood vessels
• dry mouth
• taste problems
• diarrhea
• confusion
• anxiety

Source: “Omniscan,” Webmd.com, May 2007; “Omniscan,” United States National Library of Medicine, August 2006.