Definity RT

Definity RT is an ultrasound contrast agent used to enhance 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 RT is used to help visualize specific areas of the heart more clearly on an echocardiogram.

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

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

You might 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 RT if you are allergic to Definity RT, 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 a tingly feeling; 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 pass out;
• 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 RT may include:

• headache, dizziness;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or a tingly feeling);
• 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 RT 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 RT. This is to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction to the medicine.

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

Since Definity RT is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to happen.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any limits on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may affect Definity RT, 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.