Gastrografin allergy?

Question

Has anyone ever heard of someone having an allergic reaction to gastrografin- a contrast medium that shows up on X rays used to investigate various problems in the body? If so what are the signs and symptoms? Thanks.

Answer 1

The following risks mentioned are higher in intravascular administration of iodinated contrast media, however, they are also relevant for the enteral use of GASTROGRAFIN.

Occasionally, allergy-like hypersensitivity reactions have been observed after use of X-ray contrast media such as GASTROGRAFIN. These reactions are usually manifest as non-serious respiratory or cutaneous symptoms, as mild respiratory distress, reddening of the skin (erythema), urticaria, itching or facial edema. Serious events such as angioedema, subglottic edema, bronchospasm and allergic shock are rare.

Patients with hypersensitivity or a previous reaction to iodinated contrast media are at increased risk of having a severe reaction. However, such reactions are irregular and unpredictable in nature.

Before any contrast medium is administered, the patient should be questioned for a history of allergy (e.g. seafood allergy, hay fever, hives), sensitivity to iodine or to radiographic media and bronchial asthma as the reported incidence of adverse reactions to contrast media is higher in patients with these conditions. In patients with an allergic disposition, known hypersensitivity to iodinated contrast media or a history of asthma, premedication with antihistamines and/or glucocorticoids may be considered.

Patients with bronchial asthma are at special risk of having bronchospasms or a hypersensitivity reaction.

Nausea, vomiting, mild angioedema, conjunctivitis, coughing, pruritus, rhinitis, sneezing and urticaria have been reported. These reactions, which can occur irrespective of the amount administered and the mode of administration, may be the first signs of incipient state of shock.

If hypersensitivity reactions occur, administration of the contrast medium must be discontinued immediately and - if necessary - specific therapy instituted via a venous access. To permit immediate countermeasures to be taken in emergencies, appropriate drugs, an endotracheal tube and a respirator should be ready at hand.

The small amount of free inorganic iodide from iodinated contrast media might interfere with thyroid function. Therefore, the need for examination merits particularly careful consideration in patients with latent hyperthyroidism or goiter.

There is an increased risk of aggravation of severe hypersensitivity reactions in individuals with severe cardiac disease and particularly in those with heart failure and coronary artery disease.

The need for examination merits particularly careful consideration in patients with a very poor general state of health.

With regard to the use of barium sulphate attention is drawn to the contraindications, warnings and possible side effects relevant to this preparation.

Answer 2

Side Effects Of Gastrografin