What is Dotarem?
Dotarem has magnetic properties. The contrast agent is used with magnetic resonance imaging to make blood vessels, organs, and non-bony tissue more visible on MRI. Dotarem can be used to diagnose certain brain and spinal disorders (central nervous system). Dotarem can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Warnings
Dotarem may cause life-threatening conditions in patients with advanced kidney disease. Do not take this medication if your kidneys are failing or you're on dialysis.
Before you take this drug
Dotarem may cause life-threatening conditions in patients with advanced kidney disease. Do not take this medicine if your kidneys are damaged or you're on dialysis. Gadoterate can remain in your system for many months or even years after taking this medication. This medicine is not known to cause health problems for people with healthy kidneys. Tell your doctor that you've had scans using a contrast agent multiple times and give the date of the last scan. Dotarem should not be given to someone who is allergic to gadoterate-meglumine. Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that you can use Dotarem safely:
- Kidney problems;
- Any reaction to contrast agents.
- Diabetes;
- High blood pressure
- Asthma, hay fever, or food or drug allergies
- An injury, surgery, or serious infection;
- If you are older than 60,
Dotarem is not known to harm unborn babies. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Breastfeeding may not be recommended if you take this medication within a few days. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.
Similar/related drugs
Magnevist, Gadavist, gadobutrol, gadobenate dimeglumine, gadoteridol, and Omniscan
How to take Dotarem?
Dotarem can be infused into a vein. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider. If you experience any pain or swelling when the IV is inserted, tell your caregivers. You may be asked to stay under observation by your doctor or another healthcare provider for a few minutes after the test.Make sure that there are no side effects or delayed reactions with any medication you take.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Dotarem will only be used during your MRI. You won't have a schedule of doses.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because this medicine is administered by a health professional in a medical environment.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Dotarem
If you experience symptoms indicative of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat and/or difficulty in swallowing; call emergency medical assistance immediately. Gadoterate meglumine can cause side effects up to a few days after the injection.
Dotarem may cause serious kidney problems in patients with advanced diseases. If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition, such as:
- Skin tightening, hardening, or burning
- Muscle weakness
- Joint stiffness of the arms, hands, feet, or legs;
- Deep bone pain in the ribs and hips
- Trouble moving
- Skin redness or discoloration.
Call your doctor immediately if you:
- Kidney disease: little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling of the feet or ankles. Feeling tired or short of breath.
Dotarem may cause side effects such as:
- Headache;
- Nausea;
- Rash;
- Pain or a cold sensation around the iv needle
There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if reporting side effects is necessary.
Interaction with other drug
Gadoterate meglumine may interact with other drugs, including prescription and OTC medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Informing your physician of all medicines you are currently taking and any that have recently been started or discontinued should help facilitate an accurate treatment plan.
