Definity

Definity is an ultrasound contrast agent that helps improve the quality of an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). This medicine works by altering how ultrasound waves move through your heart, which helps create a clearer image of your heart.

Definity is used to make certain parts of the heart easier to see on an echocardiogram.

Definity may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Serious side effects may happen during the injection. Let your caregiver know if you feel dizzy, nauseous, light-headed, short of breath, or if you have a severe headache, a pounding feeling in your ears, chest pain, fast or slow heartbeats, wheezing, or shallow breathing.

You may be at a higher risk for a serious reaction if you have severe or uncontrolled heart issues (like congestive heart failure, a recent heart attack, or a serious heart rhythm disorder).

You should not be treated with Definity if you are allergic to Definity, polyethylene glycol or albumin.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a congenital heart defect;
• a lung condition that has recently worsened; or
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction during a blood transfusion.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, skin redness, itching; warmth, redness, numbness, or tingling; wheezing, trouble breathing, tightness in your chest or throat; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

In rare cases, serious or fatal reactions may happen during the injection or shortly after. Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might faint;
• severe dizziness, or a cold sweat;
• chest pain, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• fast or slow heartbeats;
• severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, anxiety, confusion; or
• slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, weak or shallow breathing.

You may be more likely to have a serious reaction if you have severe or uncontrolled heart problems (congestive heart failure, a recent heart attack, serious heart rhythm disorder).

Common side effects of Definity may include:

• headache, dizziness;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling);
• nausea;
• chest pain;
• pain in your side or lower back; or
• pain, swelling, or irritation where the injection was given.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Definity is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection just before the start of your echocardiogram.

Your heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely for at least 30 minutes after you receive Definity. This is to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction to the medicine.

Since Definity is given during an echocardiogram, you will not have a regular dosing schedule.

Since Definity is administered by a healthcare professional in a medical environment, an overdose is unlikely to happen.

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any limitations on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may affect Definity, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.