PHARMACOLOGY AND SAFETY OF COMMON CONTRAST AGENTS

Course overview

Contrast agents are used in radiology to enhance structures and fluids in the body during imaging procedures. It is important for healthcare personnel who interact with patients who receive contrast agents to be aware of the indications for use and the risks of adverse events related to contrast agents and to have knowledge of the management of such events. Barium sulfate and iodinated contrast agents are the most commonly used for enhancing X-ray and computed tomography examinations; gadolinium-based contrast agents are used to enhance magnetic resonance images. Contrast agents are generally well tolerated and serious adverse events are rare. Although patients with existing kidney dysfunction are at the highest risk for severe reactions to contrast agents, premedication strategies can reduce the risk of severe adverse or allergic reactions.