Drug Guide

Generic Name

Gadopiclenol

Brand Names Elucirem

Classification

Therapeutic: Contrast Agent for MRI

Pharmacological: Paramagnetic Agent

FDA Approved Indications

  • Use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance imaging of the central nervous system and other areas.

Mechanism of Action

Gadopiclenol is a gadolinium-based contrast agent that shortens the T1 relaxation time of tissues where it accumulates, thus enhancing the contrast of MRI images.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Administer IV as per imaging protocol, typically 0.1 mmol/kg or as prescribed.

Pediatric: Dosing based on weight and clinical indication; consult specific guidelines.

Geriatric: Adjust dosage if renal function is compromised.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment; assess kidney function before administration.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment required.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Administered intravenously; not absorbed in gastrointestinal tract.

Distribution: Distributes in the vascular and interstitial spaces; crosses the blood-brain barrier when disrupted.

Metabolism: Not metabolized; excreted unchanged.

Excretion: Renally excreted.

Half Life: Approximately 1.5 hours in individuals with normal renal function.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to gadolinium-based contrast agents.
  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m²).

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with renal impairment, especially those at risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF).
  • Assess renal function prior to administration.
  • Monitor for allergic reactions.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Nausea, headache, dizziness. (Uncommon)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Anaphylaxis, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Other nephrotoxic drugs that impair renal function.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Assess renal function prior to administration.

Diagnoses:

  • Risk for renal impairment related to contrast agent use.
  • Allergic reaction related to contrast agent.

Implementation: Ensure proper IV access, administer contrast as ordered, monitor for adverse reactions.

Evaluation: Monitor patient after administration for allergic reactions or adverse effects.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Inform about the purpose and nature of the contrast agent.
  • Report any allergic reactions, nausea, or unusual symptoms.
  • Ensure medical history is shared, especially allergies and kidney issues.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

  • Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with renal impairment.

Genetic Factors: None identified.

Lab Test Interference: May cause transient changes in renal function tests.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Potential allergic reactions, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, or adverse effects related to gadolinium overload.

Treatment: Supportive care, monitor renal function, manage allergic reactions with antihistamines or epinephrine if necessary.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at controlled room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Stability: Stable until expiration date indicated on packaging.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.