Omnipaque

(Iohexol)

The active ingredient in Omnipaque is iohexol. Iohexol is a non-ionic iodinated contrast media that absorbs X-rays. When injected, swallowed, or placed into a body cavity, it temporarily fills the area being examined, improving visibility for the radiologist. Omnipaque is used during many different imaging procedures, including CT, angiography, myelography, hysterosalpingography, herniography, phlebography, cholangiopancreatography, aortography, coronary arteriography, angiocardiography, arthrography, and oral solution GI studies.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Omnipaque. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Omnipaque:

• Omnipaque is given by a trained healthcare professional through injection (intrathecal, intra-arterial, or intravenous), through a catheter, or as an oral solution, depending on the study.
• The dosing varies based on the procedure type, patient size, concentration used, and mg iodine per mL needed for good imaging.
• Common uses include CT tomography, myelography, angiography, excretory urography, ventriculography, arthrography, and gastrointestinal tract imaging.
• Hydrate well before and after the procedure unless advised otherwise to support renal function.

Some mild or common side effects of Omnipaque seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Headache.
• Warm feeling or flushing.
• Dizziness.
• Injection site discomfort.
• Mild skin rash or urticaria.
• Abdominal pain after oral or rectal use.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Omnipaque. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.
• Life-threatening skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS).
• Thromboembolic problems, including arrhythmias, hypotension, hypertensive crisis (severely high blood pressure), chest pain, or heart failure symptoms.
• Neurologic issues such as seizures (especially with intrathecal administration), confusion, or decreased seizure threshold.
• Acute kidney injury, particularly in patients with renal dysfunction or risk factors.
• Extravasation (contrast leaking into surrounding tissue), causing pain or swelling.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Omnipaque. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Omnipaque, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

Advanced vascular disease, diabetes, or are elderly with preexisting renal disease - these may put you at risk of acute renal failure.

History of previous reaction to contrast media.

Known sensitivity to iodine.

Known clinical hypersensitivities such as bronchial asthma, hay fever, and food allergies.

Hepatic or renal impairment.

History of epilepsy, severe cardiovascular disease, chronic alcoholism, or multiple sclerosis.

Multiple myeloma.

Pheochromocytoma

Homozygous sickle cell disease.

Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, as iodinated contrast media may affect thyroid function.

History of a severe cutaneous adverse reaction to Omnipaque.

Known hypersensitivity to iohexol.

Use in patients with infections of the spinal canal when given intrathecally.

With intrathecal corticosteroids.

Immediate repeat myelography in the event of technical failure.

Omnipaque begins working immediately upon administration. The contrast effect appears as soon as the agent reaches the area being imaged, making structures more visible on CT, X-rays, or fluoroscopy.

When Omnipaque is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Drugs that lower the seizure threshold, especially phenothiazine derivatives.

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, CNS stimulants, psychoactive drugs described as analeptics, major tranquilizers, or antipsychotic drugs should not be used for 48 hours leading up to the procedure, or for 24 hours after.

It is available in several dosage forms depending on how it is administered. Concentrations include Omnipaque 180, Omnipaque 240, Omnipaque 300, and Omnipaque 350 mg iodine per mL, depending on the procedure.

It will be stored by the healthcare provider who administers it to you.

Omnipaque is manufactured by GE Healthcare.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

You do not stop taking Omnipaque on your own; it is given by a healthcare professional during an imaging procedure. If you develop side effects afterward or feel unwell, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Omnipaque is not recommended in pregnancy.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Small amounts may pass into breast milk, but Omnipaque is generally considered compatible with lactation.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.