What is I-123?
Iobenguane I-123 is a member of a group of drugs known as therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals (RAY dee Oh far ma SOO tik as). Iobenguane I123 is a radioactive drug that allows pictures of specific organs of your body identified with a gamma camera. Iobenguane I-123 is used to detect specific types of tumors. Iobenguane I123 is also utilized in patients with constricted heart disease to evaluate the functioning of the nerves controlling heart muscles. Iobenguane I-123 can detect damage to nerves to determine the risk of dying due to heart failure. Iobenguane I-123 can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
Iobenguane I-123 adverse negative effects
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.
Common negative side effects of Iobenguane I-123 include:
- Dizziness;
- Rash,
- Itching;
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or a tingly sensation);
- Headache
- The veins around your IV needle.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and others could happen. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Follow the instructions on the label of your medication and the package. Be sure to inform your health care providers about your medical ailments, allergies, and any medications you take.
Prior to use this drug
It is not recommended to treat with iobenguane I-123 if you are sensitive to iobenguane or iobenguane sulphate. Speak to your doctor if you are ever diagnosed with:
- Kidney disease;
- An thyroid disorder;
- Parkinson's disease or any other neurologic disorders;
- High blood pressure;
- If you're dehydrated or have difficulty urinating, or
- If you're allergic to iodine.
Adults over the age of 65 may require kidney function tests prior to receiving iobenguane I123. Your kidney function could require monitoring after receiving this drug. It isn't known if the iobenguane-I-123 compound will cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Consult your physician if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is a risk of exposure to radiation by a fetus during the use of iobenguane. It isn't known if the iobenguane I-123 is absorbed into breast milk or whether it is harmful to the nursing infant. It is recommended not to give birth for at least 6 days following the administration of iobenguane. If you use the breast pump during this period, then throw away the milk you have collected. Don't give it to your baby.
How to take Iobenguane I-123?
Iobenguane I-123 is administered into a vein using an IV. The injection will be administered in a hospital or clinic. The injection is typically given around 24 hours prior to the radiologic test. A minimum of 1 hour prior to the time you begin treatment with iobenguane I123 You may receive an alcoholic drink that has the medicine that protects your thyroid from the harmful radioactive effects of iobenguane. Drink plenty of fluids prior to when you are given Iobenguane I-123 or for at least 48 hours following the test. Follow your doctor's advice on the type and quantity of fluids to drink prior to and following the test. Iobenguane I-123 is a radioactive substance and could have harmful effects on your bladder if not eliminated properly from your body via urine.
Expect frequent urination in the first 48 hours following the test. You'll know you're getting enough fluid when you're having more urination than usual during this period. The frequent urination will assist in helping eliminate the body's radioactive iodine.
What happens If I miss the dose?
Because the iobenguane I-123 is administered only once prior to your radiation test, it is likely that you won't be able to follow a regular dosing schedule. Consult your doctor if there is a reason why you'll not be able to complete your radiologic test within the 24 hours following the time you received the injection.
What happens If I overdose?
Since the medication is prescribed by a health expert in a medical environment, it is highly unlikely for an overdose to occur.
What should be avoided?
Don't allow yourself to be dehydrated for the first few days following receiving iobenguane I123. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing any nausea or diarrhea during this period. Follow your doctor's advice on the type and quantity of fluids that you must consume.
Interaction with other drugs
Certain medicines may affect how images are generated by Iobenguane I 123. Discuss with your doctor all your current medications as well as any that you have removed, including:
- An antidepressant, such as bupropion, amitriptyline, desipramine, fluoride, imipramine, paroxetine, sertraline, Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Prozac, Celexa, and other antidepressants;
- Medications for blood pressure and
- Cough or cold medicine that contains an anti-congestant (phenylephrine, also known as pseudoephedrine).
This list isn't complete. Other medications can be incompatible with iobenguane, such as prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. The interactions of all drugs are mentioned in this medication guide.
