gadodiamide

Gadodiamide is a gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) used as an injectable solution to enhance the quality of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. It is primarily indicated for visualization of lesions with abnormal vascularity in the brain, spine, and associated tissues, as well as in other body regions such as the thoracic (noncardiac), abdominal, pelvic cavities, and retroperitoneal space. Gadodiamide works by developing a magnetic moment when placed in a magnetic field; this alters the relaxation rates of water protons nearby and increases signal intensity on MRI images where it accumulates. This allows for clearer differentiation between normal and abnormal tissues. The drug is administered intravenously and eliminated mainly via renal excretion[1][2][3][5]. Gadodiamide was developed by Nycomed Imaging (now part of GE Healthcare). It has been associated with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), particularly in patients with advanced kidney disease[5].

Brand names

OmniscanOmniscan Prefill PlusOmniscan Safepak

Other names

gadolinium complex of diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid bismethylamide2-[bis[2-(carboxylatomethyl-(methylcarbamoylmethyl)amino)ethyl]amino]acetate; gadolinium(+3) cation