What is Definity RT?
Definity is an ultra-sound contrast agent used to enhance the quality of echocardiograms (ultrasounds of the heart). The medicine changes the path of ultrasound waves within your heart. The ultrasound can then show a more detailed image of the heart. The Definity RT technology allows certain heart segments to be more easily seen on an echocardiogram. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Definity RT.
Side effects of Definity RT
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy reaction, seek immediate medical attention: skin redness; itchiness; warmth; redness; numbness; or tingly sensation; wheezing; trouble breathing; tightness of your chest and throat;Your lips, face, tongue or throat could experience reddening or swelling.
Rarely, serious reactions or even death can occur either during or immediately after the injection. Inform your caregivers immediately if you experience:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Severe dizziness, or a cold sweat;
- Chest pain, wheezing, and trouble breathing
- Fast or slow heartbeats
- Severe headache; blurred vision or pounding of the neck and ears; anxiety or confusion
- Fainting, weak breathing, slow pulse
If you've had a heart attack or severe heart problem (congestive failure), a recent stroke, or a serious heart rhythm disturbance, your reaction may be worse.
Definity RT can cause the following side effects:
- Headache, dizziness;
- Flushing (warmth or redness);
- Nausea;
- Chest pain;
- You may experience pain in your lower or side back.
- Pain, swelling or irritation at the site of injection are symptoms commonly experienced after receiving medication by injection.
There may be additional side effects. To get medical advice about them, speak to your physician. Alternatively, report side effects by calling the FDA's hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Definite, Perflutren, and Optison
Warnings
During the injection, serious side effects can occur. You should tell your doctor if your symptoms include feeling dizzy, nauseated, or lightheaded. Also, you may experience chest pains, rapid or slow heartbeats, or wheezing. If you suffer from severe heart conditions (a heart attack or congestive failure), your reaction may be worse.
Before you take this drug
DefinityRT should not be used if the patient is allergic to DefinityRT, albumin, or polyethylene glycol.
If you've ever:
- A congenital heart defect;
- A lung disease that recently became worse.
- If you've ever experienced an allergic reaction to a transfusion,
Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or nursing.
How to take DefinityRT?
Infusion of Definity RT into the vein is how it's administered. This injection will be given by a healthcare professional just prior to the echocardiogram. Definity RT is monitored for 30 minutes to ensure that you do not have an allergic reaction. You will be monitored for at least 30 minutes after receiving Definity RT to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Definity RT will be given in conjunction with an echocardiogram. You won't have a normal dosing regimen.
What happens if I overdose?
Definity RT will only be administered by healthcare professionals in medical settings. Overdoses are unlikely.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverages or activities for you, be sure to follow their advice and adhere to his/her recommendations.
Interaction with other drug
Definity RT may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.
