Gadolinium FAQ

What is gadolinium and what is gadolinium used for?

Gadolinium is a paramagnetic metal ion. Gadolinium-based contrast agents are use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) scans to obtain an improved image of body organs and tissues.
 

Can magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) scans be performed without using gadolinium-based contrast agents?

Yes, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can be performed without Gadolinium-based contrast agents.
 

How does one find out which compound was used for MRI or MRA injection?

Often, patients who undergo MRI or MRA scans are unaware of the identity of the compound that is used in the MRI/MRA injection. The compound used in a MRI or MRA injection can be found from the accounting records of the hospital. If you have been scheduled for an MRI or MRA, you should ask prior to receiving the IV.
 

What problems are commonly associated with exposure to gadolinium?

Gadolinium can cause hardening of skin, rashes, itching, and hives, as well breathing difficulties, impaired kidney function, renal failure and even death.
 

What diseases have been associated with gadolinium-based contrast agents?

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF), or nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD), has occurred in people with kidney disease.
 

What are the chances of recovering from NSF/NFD?

There are no reliable cures for NSF/NFD, although new treatments are being continuously researched.
 

What are the FDA's responses to injuries related to gadolinium?

The FDA’s black box warning on packaging and related literature is designed to prevent improper and illegal marketing of prescription medications by drug manufacturers. The recommended dosage of contrast agent should be administered as per the product label and to be repeated only when the previously administered contrast agent is completely eliminated from the body.
 

What additional actions are likely to follow?

The FDA may consider other risk management options. The FDA will continue to evaluate any new reports of NSF associated with gadolinium and may request additional clinical studies and/or labeling alterations.