Gadolinium Lawyers

MRI Contrast Dye Agents

Gadolinium, a contrast agent used during MRIs, has been linked to the incurable disease: nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). This chemical is marketed by several pharmaceutical companies under various brand names comprising of Magnevist, Omniscan, OptiMARK, MultiHance, and ProHance. The FDA approved all of these gadolinium based MRI contrast agents. However, an FDA gadolinium warning in May of 2007 requested that they all bear the strongest warning issued by the administration, indicating the potentially life-threatening side effects that could be caused by the drug in patients with kidney conditions.

• Magnevist: Magnevist, created by Bayer-Schering, allows physicians to observe abnormal tissue. Because recent studies have linked gadolinium injections to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, which causes swelling and tightening of the skin, Bayer-Schering has relabeled packages to include potential risks. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis has developed in patients with kidney disease, though other side effects may occur. Patients without renal conditions who have been exposed to Magnevist have reported seizures, irregular heartbeats, fainting, numbness, vomiting and problems urinating.
• Omniscan: Manufactured by GE Healthcare, Omniscan was first introduced in 1993 and garnered approval from the FDA for high-dose injections. Due to recent connections to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, GE Healthcare has announced those with pre-existing kidney conditions should be exposed to this drug. The pharmaceutical company has received 96 complaints from patients who have developed nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Other symptoms reported from Omniscan include nausea, headache and dizziness. Patients with respiratory conditions may also experience heart problems.
• OptiMARK: Developed by Mallinckrodt Inc. and now acquired by Tyco International Ltd., the branded contrast agent OptiMARK is administered through a power injector by physicians, enabling them to view tissue abnormalities. Because this gadolinium-containing drug may cause nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, Tyco advises that unless absolutely crucial, patients with kidney conditions should not be administered the drug. Other reported adverse reactions include headaches, dizziness, nausea, paresthesia and problems with taste.
• MultiHance: MultiHance, manufactured by Bracco Diagnostics, also contains gadolinium and is used during MRIs. The FDA advises Bracco Diagnostics, along with other manufacturers, to change the drug's label to include the risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.
• ProHance: ProHance is also created by Bracco Diagnostics. In addition to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, patients have reported vomiting, confusion, breathing problems, hives and low blood pressure from this gadolinium-containing drug.

Gadolinium lawyers represent individuals who have been injured by gadolinium in lawsuits against the contrast dye manufacturers. If you are suffering from Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis due to Gadolinium exposure, contact Morgan and Morgan's Gadolinium Lawyers today to find out about your legal rights and options for recovering compensation.