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Ablavar (previously Vasovist) - Patient leaflet, side effects, dosage

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Patient leaflet - Ablavar (previously Vasovist)

WHAT ABLAVAR IS AND WHAT IT IS USED FOR


Ablavar is an injectable contrast medium for making a diagnos the abdomen or limb clearer. It is for use in adults only.


ge of the body's blood vessels in


Ablavar is for diagnostic use only. It is used to help detect changes in the blood vessels which are known or suspected to be abnormal. The diagnosis can be made with greater accuracy than without using this medicine.


This medicine, a contrast agent with magnetic properties, helps to visualise the passage of blood through the vessels by brightening the blood for an extended period. This medicine is used together with an imaging technique called magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).


If you have any questions or


sure about something, ask the doctor or MRI-centre personnel.


2. BEFORE Y

GIVEN ABLAVAR


Do not use Ablavar

You must not be given Ablavar if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to gadofosveset or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (see section 6 of this leaflet).

Take special care with Ablavar

You will need special medical attention if allergy-like reactions occur. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice itching, a feeling of mild swelling in your throat or tongue, which might be a first sign of some allergy-like reaction. Your doctor will be mindful of other signs as well.

Tell your doctor if:

  • you have a cardiac pacemaker or any ferromagnetic implant or a metallic stent in your body
  • you suffer from allergy (e.g. hay fever, hives) or asthma
  • you had any reactions to previous injections of contrast media
  • your kidneys do not work properly
  • you have recently had, or soon expect to have, a liver transplant

If any of these apply to you, your doctor will decide whether the intended examination is possible or not.

Your doctor may decide to take a blood test to check how well your kidneys are working before making the decision to use this medicine, especially if you are 65 years of age or older.

Children or adolescents under 18 years

This medicine should not be used in children or adolescents under 18 year of age.

Using other medicines

Please tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription.

Your doctor will advise you what to do.

r or radiologist less strictly


Pregnancy and breast-feeding

Ask your doctor for advice before taking any medicine.

You must tell your doctor if you think you are or might become pregnant.

It has not been proven that this medicine is safe to use during pregnancy. You will consider this with you. This medicine must not be used in pregnant w necessary.

Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or about to start breast-feeding. Your doctor will discuss whether you should continue breast-feeding or interrupt breast-feeding for a period of 24 hours after you receive this medicine.

Driving and using machines

There are no studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines.

This medicine can uncommonly cause dizziness or vision problems. If you get these effects you should not drive or use machines

Important information about some of the ingredients of Ablavar


This medicine contains 6.3 mmol sodiu patients on a controlled sodium diet.


per dose. To be taken into consideration by


3. HOW TO USE ABL

You will be asked to lie down on the MRI scanning bed. Scanning may start immediately after the Ablavar injection. After the injection you will be observed in case there might be any initial side effects.

The usual

The dose of this medicine varies depending on your weight. The doctor will decide how much medicine is needed for your examination. The dose is: 0.12 ml/kg body weight (equivalent to 0.03 mmol/kg of body weight).

Further information regarding the administration and handling of this medicine is given at the end of the leaflet.

Method of administration

This medicine is given as a rapid injection into a vein by a medical professional only. The usual injection site is the back of your hand or just in front of your elbow.

Dose in special patient groups

The use of this medicine is not recommended in patients with severe kidney problems and patients who have recently had, or soon expect to have, a liver transplant. However if use is required you should only receive one dose of this medicine during a scan and you should not receive a second injection for at least 7 days.

Elderly

It is not necessary to adjust your dose if you are 65 years of age or older but you may have a blood test to check how well your kidneys are working.

If you receive more Ablavar than you should have received:

If you think you may have had an overdose talk to your doctor immediately. Your doctor will treat you should overdose occur. If necessary, this medicine can be removed from the body by haemodialysis using high-flux filters.

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, please consult your doct radiologist or MRI-centre personnel.


4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

Like all medicines, Ablavar can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

If you have any of the following symptoms you should tell a d

mediately:


id / hypersensitivity reactions)


Ablavar can be associated with allergy-like reactions (an characterised by:-


  • skin reactions, (cutaneous reactions)
  • breathing difficulties and/or heart/ pulse-rate/ blood pressure disturbances which may lead to consciousness disorders respiratory reactions, and /or cardiovascular manifestations which may lead to shock).

Most of the side effects were mild to moderate in intensity. Most of the side effects (80%) occurred within 2 hours. Delayed effects (afturs to days) may occur.


Below are listed the reported/expe­rienced side effects by frequency): Very common: affects more than 1 user in 10 affe0 users in 100


Common:

Uncommon:

Rare:

Very rare:

Not known:


The fo


affe0 users in 1,000

affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000

affects less than 1 user in 10,000

frequency cannot be estimated from the available data.

is a list of side-effects observed in clinical trials:

Common:

Headache

Tingling or numbness of the hands or feet

Change of taste in mouth

Burning sensation

Warm feeling (vasodilatation) including flushing

Nausea

Itching

Feeling cold.

Uncommon:

Runny nose

Sore throat

Feeling anxious

Confusion

Allergy-like reaction

Impairment of taste

Dizziness

Shaking

Decreased feeling or sensitivity (especially of the skin)

Sense of smell distortion

Involuntary muscle contractions

Abnormal vision

Tear secretion increased

Disturbed nerve signals in the heart (first degree)

Fast heart beat

Problems with the electrical rhythm of the heart (long QT)

High blood pressure

Swelling and clotting in a vein

Coldness in the fingers and toes

Shortness of breath

Cough

Vomiting

Attempting to vomit

Diarrhoea

Stomach discomfort

Stomach pain

Pain in the throat

Indigestion

Dry mouth

Wind

Decreased feeling or sensitivity of the lips

Increased production of saliva

Anal itching

Hives

Reddening of the skin

Rash

Sweating increased

Muscle cramps

Muscle spasms

Neck pain

Pain in arms or legs

Genital itching

Geni Pain

Tiredness

Feeling abnormal

Groin pain

Feeling hot

Injection site pain

Injection site coldness

Reddening of skin at the injection site

Blood in the urine

Proteins in the urine

Sugar in the urine

High sugar levels in the blood

Low calcium levels in the blood Unusual amount of salt in the body.

Rare:

Inflammation of the skin

Urinary tract infection

Abnormal dreams

Seeing, feeling or hearing things that is not there

Appetite decreased

Eyesight disorders

Abnormal eye sensation

Ear pain

Heartbeat irregularity/dis­turbed heart-chamber contractions (cardiac flutter, atrial fibrillation) problems with the electrical rhythm of the heart (ST segment/T wave abnormalities)

Chest pain

Slow heart beat

Palpitations

Thickening of the arteries due to cholesterol deposits

Low blood pressure

Shallow breathing

Face swelling

Sweatiness

Muscle tightness

Sensation of heaviness

Urge to pass urine

Kidney pain

Passing urine frequently

Lower abdominal pain

Fever

Shivering

Weakness

Chest pressure sensation

Injection site blood clot

Injection site bruising

Injection site inflammation

Injection site burning

Fluid escaping from injection site into the surrounding tissue

Injection site bleeding

Injection site itching

Sensation of pressure

Phantom pain in the arms or legs

Low or high potassium levels in the blood

High sodium levels in the blood.

ve been reports of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (which causes hardening of the skin and may affect also soft tissue and internal organs) associated with use of other gadolinium-containing contrast agents.

If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or radiologist.

5. HOW TO STORE ABLAVAR

Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the label after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.

Keep the injection vial in its outer carton in order to protect from light.

After first opening, the medicine should be used immediately.

Do not use this medicine if you notice severe discolouration, the occurrence of particulate matter or a defective container.

Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.

  • 6. FURTHER INFORMATION

What Ablavar looks like and contents of the pack

Ablavar is a clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid supplied in a rubber stoppered glass vial, with an aluminium seal, in individual cartons. The contents of the packs are:

Marketing Authorisation


r and Manufacturer


TMC Pharma Services Ltd., Finchampstead, Berkshire RG40 4LJ , UK Tel:01252 842255

This l


as last approved in


Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency web site:

<--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following information is intended for medical or healthcare professionals only:

Prior to administration of Ablavar it is recommended that all patients are screened for renal dysfunction by obtaining laboratory tests.

There have been reports of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) associated with use of some gadolinium-containing contrast agents in patients with acute or chronic severe renal impairment (GFR< 30 ml/min /1.73 m). Patients undergoing liver transplantation are at particular risk since the incidence of acute renal failure is high in this group. As there is a possibility that NSF may occur with Ablavar, it should therefore be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment and in patients in the perioperative liver transplantation period unless the diagnostic information is essential and not available with non-contrast enhanced MRI. If use of Ablavar cannot be avoided, the dose should not exceed 0.03 mmol/kg body weight. More than one dose should not be used during a scan. Because of the lack of information on repeated administration, Ablavar injections should not be repeated unless the interval between injections is at least 7 days.

As the renal clearance of gadofosveset may be impaired in the elderly, it is particularly important to screen patients aged 65 years and older for renal dysfunction.

Haemodialysis shortly after Ablavar administration may be useful at removing Ablavar from the There is no evidence to support the initiation of haemodialysis for prevention or treatment of NS patients not already undergoing haemodialysis.

Ablavar should not be used during pregnancy unless the clinical condition of the wom of gadofosveset.

ires use


inistration,


Continuing breast feeding or discontinuing Ablavar for a period of 24 hours a should be at the discretion of the doctor and lactating mother.

The peel-off tracking label included on the vials should be stuck onto the patient record to enable accurate recording of the gadolinium contrast agent used. The dose used should also be recorded.


Ablavar is supplied ready to use as a clear, colourless to pale Contrast media should not be used in case of severe disco matter, or defective container.

queous solution.

ion, the occurrence of particulate


Vials containing Ablavar are not intended for the withdrawal of multiple doses. The rubber stopper should never be pierced more than once. product should be used immediately.

awal of the solution from the vial, this medicinal


Any remaining solution not used in


ination must be discarded.

28

5 or 10 injection vials with 10 ml solution for injection (in 10-ml glass vial)

1, 5 or 10 injection vials with 15 ml solution for injection (in 20-ml glass vial)

1, 5 or 10 injection vials with 20 ml solution for injection (in 20-ml glass vial)

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

The drug is classified in the ATC tree:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ablavar used for in medical imaging?

Ablavar is a paramagnetic contrast agent used primarily in MRI scans to enhance the visibility of blood vessels and organs, making it easier for doctors to diagnose conditions.

How does Ablavar work in the body?

Ablavar works by altering the magnetic properties of nearby water molecules in the body when exposed to magnetic fields during an MRI, improving image clarity.

Is Ablavar safe for patients with kidney issues?

Patients with severe kidney problems should avoid Ablavar, as it may increase the risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Always consult your doctor before use.

Can pregnant women use Ablavar?

The use of Ablavar during pregnancy should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.

How long does the effect of Ablavar last during an MRI?

The effects of Ablavar last only during the imaging procedure. It typically exits the body through the kidneys and does not remain in the system.

What should I inform my doctor before receiving Ablavar?

Inform your doctor about any allergies, kidney issues, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before receiving Ablavar.

Are there any side effects associated with Ablavar?

Common side effects can include mild nausea or headache. Serious side effects are rare but can occur in susceptible individuals.

How is Ablavar administered during a procedure?

Ablavar is usually administered intravenously (IV) before or during an MRI scan to enhance imaging results.

What should I do if I experience a reaction to Ablavar?

If you experience any unusual symptoms after receiving Ablavar, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Is there a specific age limit for using Ablavar?

Ablavar can be used for adults and children; however, pediatric usage is determined on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare professional.

Can I eat or drink before receiving Ablavar?

It’s generally advised to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding eating and drinking prior to receiving Ablavar for an MRI.

How can I prepare for an MRI with Ablavar?

Your doctor will give you specific instructions on preparing for your MRI. This may include fasting or avoiding certain medications before the scan.

Will my insurance cover the use of Ablavar during an MRI?

Insurance coverage for Ablavar varies by provider and plan. Contact your insurance company to verify coverage details before your procedure.

Is there a difference between Ablavar and other contrast agents?

Yes, those differences include how they enhance images, their chemical composition, and specific uses in imaging technology compared to other contrast agents.

What happens if I miss my appointment after being scheduled for an MRI with Ablavar?

If you miss your appointment, contact your healthcare provider to reschedule as soon as possible. Discuss any implications regarding your health condition.

How quickly can I expect results after my MRI with Ablavar?

MRI results can typically be available within a few days after the scan; however, urgent cases may receive quicker feedback from healthcare providers.

Are there alternatives to ablavor if I'm allergic to contrast media?

Yes, alternatives are available depending on your condition. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider if you have contrast allergies.

Can I have other medical tests done after receiving Ablavar?

Yes, but it's recommended to wait at least 24 hours post-administration before undergoing additional tests unless specified by your doctor.

How does Ablavar affect patients with claustrophobia during an MRI scan?

Patients with claustrophobia should inform their healthcare team beforehand; they can provide support or options such as sedation if necessary.

What research supports the safety and efficacy of using Ablavar in MRIs?

Numerous clinical studies and trials have demonstrated that Ablavar is safe and effective when used appropriately in conjunction with MRIs.