Gadobutrol

The Uses of Gadobutrol

Gadobutrol is a gadolinium-based MRI contrast agent (GBCA).

The Uses of Gadobutrol

Gadobutrol injection is a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent that is used to help create a clear picture of the body during an MRI scan. MRI scans are a special kind of procedure that lets a doctor look at the inside of the body, such as the brain.

brand name

Gadobutrol is marketed by Bayer AG as Gadovist, and by Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals as Gadavist. In India, it is also marketed by Vivere Imaging as Viv-butrol.

Mechanism of action

In the central nervous system, Gadobutrol works by highlighting any areas with disrupted blood brain barrier (BBB) and/or abnormal vascularity. In breast tissue, Gadobutrol exposes the presence and extent of malignant breast disease.

Side Effects

Side effects of Gadobutrol are uncommon but may include: headache, nausea, vomiting, feeling unwell (malaise), dizziness, abnormal or unpleasant taste in your mouth, feeling hot, numbness or tingly feeling, itching or rash, skin redness, or injection site reactions (cold feeling, warmth, pain, or burning). Its more serious side effects include: urinating less than usual or not at all; drowsiness, confusion, mood changes, increased thirst, loss of appetite; swelling, weight gain, shortness of breath; seizures (convulsions); breathing problems; pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest; or severe pain, burning, or irritation around the IV needle.

Dosage

Gadobutrol is given as an infusion into a vein. The recommended dose of Gadobutrol for adult and pediatric patients (including term neonates) is 0.1 mL/kg body weight (0.1 mmol/kg).

Waste Disposal

Expired or waste pharmaceuticals shall carefully take into consideration applicable DEA, EPA, and FDA regulations. It is not appropriate to dispose by flushing the pharmaceutical down the toilet or discarding to trash. If possible return the pharmaceutical to the manufacturer for proper disposal being careful to properly label and securely package the material. Alternatively, the waste pharmaceutical shall be labeled, securely packaged and transported by a state licensed medical waste contractor to dispose by burial in a licensed hazardous or toxic waste landfill or incinerator.