Omniscan

Omniscan is a contrast agent that has magnetic properties. It is used with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help make blood vessels, organs, and other non-bony tissues more visible on the MRI.

Omniscan is used in adults and children who are at least 2 years old to help diagnose specific disorders of the brain and spine (central nervous system), or the stomach, chest, and pelvic areas.

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

Omniscan can cause a serious, potentially life-threatening condition in people with advanced kidney disease. Before you receive this medicine, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease or if you are on dialysis. You may not be able to receive this medicine. Additionally, let your doctor know if you have recently received any contrast agents similar to this medicine.

Omniscan can cause a serious condition in people with severe kidney disease. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.

Omniscan can remain in your body for months or years after you receive it. It is not known if this could lead to any health issues in people with normal kidney function. Inform your doctor if you have had multiple scans with a contrast agent, and provide the date of your most recent scan.

You should not receive Omniscan if you are allergic to it.

Inform your doctor if you have ever had:

• any kind of reaction to a contrast agent;
• asthma, hay fever, food or drug allergies;
• diabetes;
• high blood pressure; or
• liver or kidney disease.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Some side effects of gadodiamide may occur up to several days after injection.

Omniscan can cause a life-threatening condition in people with advanced kidney disease. Call your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of this condition, such as:

• burning, itching, swelling, scaling, and tightening or hardening of your skin;
• skin redness or dark patches;
• tiredness, muscle weakness;
• joint stiffness in your arms, hands, legs, or feet;
• pain; or
• trouble moving.

Also call your doctor at once if you have:

• kidney problems--little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath;
• a seizure (convulsions); or
• chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder.

Common side effects of Omniscan may include:

• headache;
• dizziness; or
• nausea.

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.

Omniscan is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

You will be watched for a short time to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

In a medical setting, it is unlikely that you will miss a dose.

In a medical setting, an overdose would be managed promptly.

Follow your doctor's guidance regarding any limits on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may affect Omniscan, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.