gadoterate meglumine (Rx)

Brand and Other Names:Dotarem, Clariscan

Dosing & Uses

AdultPediatric

Dosage Forms & Strengths

IV solution

  • 0.5 mmol/mL (contains 376.9 mg/mL gadoterate meglumine)

MRI Contrast

Gadolinium-based contrast agent for use in MRI of the brain, spine, and associated tissues to detect and visualize areas with disruption of the blood brain barrier and/or abnormal vascularity

0.2 mL/kg (0.1 mmol/kg) IV bolus infused at rate of 2 mL/second

Dosage Forms & Strengths

IV solution

  • 0.5 mmol/mL (contains 376.9 mg/mL gadoterate meglumine)

MRI Contrast

Gadolinium-based contrast agent for use in MRI of the brain, spine, and associated tissues in pediatric patients (including term neonates) to detect and visualize areas with disruption of the blood brain barrier and/or abnormal vascularity

0.2 mL/kg (0.1 mmol/kg) IV bolus infused at rate of 1-2 mL/second

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Adverse Effects

1-10%

Headache (1.5% pediatric)

<1%

Nausea (0.6%)

Headache (0.5% adult)

Injection site pain (0.4%)

Injection site coldness (0.2%)

Burning sensation (0.2%)

Feeling cold (<0.2%)

Rash (<0.2%)

Somnolence (<0.2%)

Fatigue (<0.2%)

Dizziness (<0.2%)

Vomiting (<0.2%)

Pruritus (<0.2%)

Asthenia

Paraesthesia (<0.2%)

Dysgeusia (<0.2%)

Pain in extremity (<0.2%)

Anxiety (<0.2%)

Hypertension (<0.2%)

Palpitations (<0.2%)

Oropharyngeal discomfort (<0.2%)

Serum creatinine increased (<0.2%)

Injection site reactions, including site inflammation, extravasation, pruritus, and warmth (<0.2%)

Postmarketing Reports

Cardiac disorders: Bradycardia, tachycardia, arrhythmia, hypotension

Nervous system disorders: Coma, convulsion, syncope, presyncope, parosmia, tremor

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Muscle contracture, muscle weakness

Gastrointestinal disorders: Diarrhea, salivary hypersecretion

General disorders and administration site conditions: Malaise, fever

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis

Vascular disorders: Superficial phlebitis

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Warnings

Black Box Warnings

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) increase risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) among patients with impaired elimination

Avoid use in these patients unless the diagnostic information is essential and not available with noncontrasted MRI or other modalities

NSF may result in fatal or debilitating fibrosis affecting the skin, muscle and internal organs

Risk of NSF highest with chronic, severe kidney disease (ie, GFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2) or acute kidney injury

Screen for acute kidney injury and other conditions that may reduce renal function; for patients at risk for chronically reduced renal function (eg, age >60 years, hypertension, diabetes), estimate GFR through laboratory testing

For patients at highest risk for NSF, do not exceed recommended dose and allow sufficient period of time for elimination of the drug before readministration

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Cautions

Gadolinium-based contrast agents increase the risk for NSF among patient with impaired elimination (see Black Box Warnings)

Anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions reported and may involve cardiovascular, respiratory, and/or cutaneous manifestations, including reports of patients experiencing cardiovascular collapse and death

Acute kidney injury requiring dialysis has occurred in patients with chronically reduced renal function

Gadolinium retention

  • Gadolinium is retained for months or years in several organs
  • Highest concentrations (nanomoles per gram of tissue) have been identified in the bone, followed by other organs (eg, brain, skin, kidney, liver, and spleen)
  • Duration of retention also varies by tissue and is longest in bone
  • Patients requiring multiple lifetime doses, pregnant and pediatric patients, and patients with inflammatory conditions are at higher risk of gadolinium retention
  • Brain deposits
    • FDA investigated the risk of brain deposits following repeated use of GBCAs for MRI in 2015
    • Publications in the medical literature have reported that deposits of GBCAs remain in the brains of some patients who undergo ≥4 contrast MRI scans, long after the last administration
    • As of 2017, the FDA review had not identified adverse health effects from gadolinium retained in the brain after the use of GBCAs MRI; all GBCAs may be associated with some gadolinium retention in the brain and other body tissues
    • Early data in rat studies show that linear GBCAs are more prone to dissociation into free gadolinium and demonstrate greater brain deposition than macrocyclic GBCAs, which are less prone to dissociation
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Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy

GBCAs cross the placenta and result in fetal exposure and gadolinium retention

Human data on the association between GBCAs and adverse fetal outcomes are limited and inconclusive

Estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown

All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes

Lactation

Estimated infant exposure is 0.001%-0.04% of the maternal dose

Unknown whether the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant or the effects of the drug on milk production

Developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered together with the mother’s clinical need for the drug and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant or from underlying maternal condition

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

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Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

In MRI, visualization of normal and pathological tissue depends in part on variations in the radiofrequency signal intensity that occurs with differing proton density and longitudinal/transverse relaxation times; gadolinium contrast agents lead to distinct shortening of proton relaxation times in plasma and may improve tissue visualization

Gadoterate does not cross the intact blood-brain barrier (BBB) and, therefore, does not enhance normal brain or lesions that have a normal blood-brain barrier (eg, cysts, mature postoperative scars); however, disruption of the BBB or abnormal vascularity allows distribution of gadoterate in brain lesions such as neoplasms, abscesses, and infarcts

Distribution

Protein bound: None

Vd: 179 mL/kg (females); 211 mL/kg (males)

Metabolism

Not known to be metabolized

Elimination

Half-life: 1.4 hr (females); 2 hr (males); 5.1 hr (moderate renal impairment; 13.9 hr (severe renal impairment)

Renal clearance: 1.27 mL/min/kg (females); 1.74 mL/min/kg (males)

Excretion: urine (72.9-85.5% females; 85.4-92% males)

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Administration

IV Incompatibilities

Do not mix with other drugs or parenteral nutrition

IV Preparation

Visually inspect vials/syringes for particulate matter

Do not use if solution contains particulates or container appears damaged

Solution should appear clear, colorless to yellow

When injected using plastic disposable syringes, the contrast medium should be drawn into the syringe and used immediately

Discard unused portion

IV Administration

Ensure catheter and venous patency before injection to avoid tissue extravasation

Adults: Infuse IV bolus at rate of 2 mL/second

Pediatrics (≥2 years): Infuse IV bolus at rate of 1-2 mL/second

To ensure complete injection, follow with saline flush

Contrast MRI can begin immediately following injection

Administer only where trained personnel and therapies are promptly available for hypersensitivity reactions, including resuscitation

Monitoring

  • Before administration, assess all patients for history of reaction to contrast media, bronchial asthma, and/or allergic disorders – these patients have an increased risk of hypersensitivity to GBCAs
  • During and following administration, observe for signs/symptoms of hypersensitivity

Storage

Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F)

Prefilled syringes must not be frozen; frozen syringes should be discarded

Should solidification occur in the vial because of exposure to the cold, bring to room temperature before use

If vial allowed to stand at room temperature for a minimum of 90 minutes, gadoterate meglumine should return to a clear, colorless to yellow solution; if solids persist, discard vial

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Images

BRAND FORM. UNIT PRICE PILL IMAGE
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL (376.9 mg/mL) vial
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL solution
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL (376.9 mg/mL) vial
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL solution
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL solution
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL solution
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL (376.9 mg/mL) vial
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL (376.9 mg/mL) vial
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL (376.9 mg/mL) vial
Dotarem intravenous
-
0.5 mmol/mL (376.9 mg/mL) vial

Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.

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Patient Handout

Patient Education
gadoterate meglumine intravenous

GADOLINIUM-BASED CONTRAST AGENT - INJECTION

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Clariscan, Dotarem, Elucirem, Eovist, Gadavist, Multihance, Prohance, Vueway

WARNING: This medication may rarely cause kidney damage. The risk of kidney damage is greater if you already have kidney problems, if you are elderly, or if you have high blood pressure or diabetes.Your doctor should check how well your kidneys are working before you receive this medication.See also Side Effects section.

USES: This medication is used before a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. It belongs to a class of drugs known as gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs). This medication helps the MRI scan make clearer images, so your doctor can more easily diagnose your condition.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start this medication. If you have any questions, ask your health care professional.This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care provider. The injection is given as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and weight.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, unpleasant taste, or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your health care professional.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), pain/swelling/redness at the injection site, swelling ankles/feet.Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: dark patches on the skin, hardening/tightening of the skin, joint stiffness, hip/rib pain, muscle weakness, trouble moving.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your health care professional if you are allergic to it; or to other gadolinium-based contrast agents (such as gadoterate meglumine, gadoteridol, gadoxetate disodium, gadobenate dimeglumine, gadobutrol, or gadopiclenol); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease (including being on dialysis), diabetes, high blood pressure.Gadolinium can stay in your body for months or years after getting this medication. Studies have not found harmful effects from gadolinium if your kidneys work normally. For more details talk to your doctor.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication may pass into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function) may be done before you use this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

MISSED DOSE: Not applicable. This medication is given once before your imaging test.

STORAGE: Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

Information last revised September 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

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Formulary

FormularyPatient Discounts

Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.

To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.

Adding plans allows you to:

  • View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
  • Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
  • Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
  • Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.

The above information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Individual plans may vary and formulary information changes. Contact the applicable plan provider for the most current information.

Tier Description
1 This drug is available at the lowest co-pay. Most commonly, these are generic drugs.
2 This drug is available at a middle level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "preferred" (on formulary) brand drugs.
3 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs.
4 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
5 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
6 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
NC NOT COVERED – Drugs that are not covered by the plan.
Code Definition
PA Prior Authorization
Drugs that require prior authorization. This restriction requires that specific clinical criteria be met prior to the approval of the prescription.
QL Quantity Limits
Drugs that have quantity limits associated with each prescription. This restriction typically limits the quantity of the drug that will be covered.
ST Step Therapy
Drugs that have step therapy associated with each prescription. This restriction typically requires that certain criteria be met prior to approval for the prescription.
OR Other Restrictions
Drugs that have restrictions other than prior authorization, quantity limits, and step therapy associated with each prescription.
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Medscape prescription drug monographs are based on FDA-approved labeling information, unless otherwise noted, combined with additional data derived from primary medical literature.