Contrast Media—Implications for Pharmacists

Abstract

Although contrast media are commonly used in hospital practice, there is limited attention to their use by pharmacists. Contrast media have the potential to cause a range of adverse reactions, including contrast-induced nephropathy. Some reactions are unpredictable and cannot be prevented; however, other reactions may be abated with careful consideration of the patient's clinical status and risk factors, as well as various prophylactic measures. An understanding of contrast media properties can help pharmacists to enhance drug safety when reviewing or dispensing drug orders or counselling patients around the time of contrast-enhanced diagnostic procedures. J Pharm Pract Res 2005; 35: 33-6.