iopamidol at a glance
Medicine class
Non-ionic, water-soluble iodinated X-ray contrast agent
Usual role
Imaging the gastrointestinal tract, including where leakage, obstruction or aspiration is a concern
How it is given
By mouth or rectally, sometimes through a correctly positioned gastrointestinal tube; not by injection
What is iopamidol used for?
The selected product is licensed only for diagnostic imaging of the gastrointestinal tract.
Adult gastrointestinal imaging, particularly when an upper gastrointestinal perforation or leak is suspected.
Oral or rectal contrast for selected abdominal or pelvic CT examinations.
Paediatric gastrointestinal imaging when leakage outside the bowel, obstruction, thickened bowel contents or entry into the respiratory tract may be a concern.
How does iopamidol work?
Iopamidol contains iodine, which absorbs X-rays and appears clearly on radiological images. Given orally or rectally, it outlines the digestive tract and can help reveal its shape, contents or leakage. Only a small proportion is normally absorbed.
How to take iopamidol
Iopamidol is administered as part of an imaging procedure by trained staff. Follow the imaging department’s preparation instructions rather than taking it independently.
It may be swallowed, given rectally or administered through a gastrointestinal tube.
Tell staff about previous contrast reactions, allergies, asthma and significant heart, liver or kidney problems.
Staff must confirm that a nasogastric tube is in the stomach before administration.
This gastrointestinal formulation must not be injected.
iopamidol side effects
Common or expected effects
- Vomiting, particularly in adults
- Diarrhoea, particularly in children
Get urgent medical advice
- Breathing difficulty, wheezing, throat tightness or swelling of the face, tongue or throat
- Marked dizziness, fainting or symptoms of very low blood pressure
- A widespread or blistering rash
- Persistent coughing or breathing problems suggesting contrast has entered the airways
iopamidol in pregnancy
Pregnancy data are limited, so the product information recommends avoiding iopamidol as a precaution where possible. The need for the X-ray examination must also be assessed. Tell the imaging team if you are or could be pregnant so they can consider the benefits, radiation exposure and alternatives.
iopamidol while breastfeeding
Breastfeeding does not normally need to be interrupted. Little systemic absorption is expected after gastrointestinal administration, and clinically significant infant exposure is unlikely. Seek specialist advice for a premature or unwell infant.
iopamidol interactions
Interaction studies with this gastrointestinal product are limited. Tell the imaging team about all medicines you take.
Beta-blockers
They may worsen a severe hypersensitivity reaction and reduce the effectiveness of some emergency treatment used for that reaction.
Common questions about iopamidol
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is iopamidol a treatment or a contrast agent?
It is a diagnostic contrast agent that improves radiological images; it does not treat the condition being investigated.
Can iopamidol be injected?
Not in this gastrointestinal formulation. It is for oral or rectal administration and must not be injected.
Can iopamidol be given through a nasogastric tube?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.