Iomeprol
Pronunciation: (eye-oh-MEH-prole).
- Generic name
- iomeprol
- Brand names
- Iomeron
- Drug class
- Non-ionic iodinated contrast agent
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States
Australia: · Full directory
What iomeprol is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how iomeprol works
Iomeprol is a non-ionic, low-osmolar iodinated contrast agent. It works by increasing the attenuation of X-rays in blood vessels and tissues, thereby enhancing the contrast of images obtained during radiographic procedures. The iodine atoms in iomeprol absorb X-rays more than surrounding tissues, allowing for clearer differentiation between normal and abnormal structures. (2)
What iomeprol is used for
Computed Tomography (CT) imaging
Computed Tomography (CT) imaging (2)
Angiography (e.g., coronary, cerebral, peripheral)
Angiography (e.g., coronary, cerebral, peripheral) (2)
Urography (imaging of the urinary tract)
Urography (imaging of the urinary tract) (2)
Arthrography (imaging of joints)
Arthrography (imaging of joints) (2)
Myelography (imaging of the spinal canal)
Myelography (imaging of the spinal canal) (2)
Before taking iomeprol
Do not take / not appropriate for
- known hypersensitivity to iomeprol or other iodinated contrast agents, severe thyrotoxicosis, and severe renal impairment without the possibility of dialysis. Precautions should be taken in patients with a history of allergic reactions, asthma, dehydration, multiple myeloma, diabetes, or heart failure. (Contraindication) (2)
- Special care is needed in neonates, infants, and elderly patients. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take iomeprol
- General Instructions: Iomeprol is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or imaging center. You will not need to take this medication at home.. Adult Dosing: The dose depends on the type of imaging procedure, the area being examined, and your body weight. Typical doses range from about 20 mL to 200 mL, as determined by your radiologist.. Pediatric Dosing: Iomeron is recommended for adult patients; pediatric use is based on limited trial experience and must be determined by a pediatric specialist.. Administration: Given as an intravenous or intra-arterial injection by trained medical staff immediately before or during the imaging procedure.. When To Stop: You do not need to stop taking iomeprol; it is a single-use medication for diagnostic purposes only.. Storage: Iomeprol is stored by healthcare professionals below 30°C (86°F), protected from light and freezing.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
Not applicable. Iomeprol is administered as a single dose by a healthcare provider during your imaging procedure.
Overdose
Overdose is rare but may cause kidney problems or fluid overload. If overdose is suspected, supportive care and monitoring of kidney function are essential. Dialysis may be considered in severe cases. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Vomiting
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Headache
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dizziness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Injection site reactions (pain, warmth)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Kidney problems (rare, but serious)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Difficulty breathing, swelling, widespread rash, or chest pain after the scan
Pain, swelling, or skin changes at the injection site (possible extravasation)
(2)Signs of reduced urination or new swelling (possible kidney problems)
Serious warnings
Serious allergic (anaphylactoid) reactions can occur, even in patients with no prior history, typically within 1-15 minutes of administration (rarely up to 2 hours) — serious
Symptoms: Serious allergic (anaphylactoid) reactions can occur, even in patients with no prior history, typically within 1-15 minutes of administration (rarely up to 2 hours). Extreme care is taken during injection to avoid extravasation (leakage into surrounding tissue), which in rare cases has caused skin damage or compartment syndrome. Use caution in patients with kidney impairment or diabetes. Thyroid storm has occurred after intravascular contrast use in patients with hyperthyroidism or an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule; contrast can interfere with thyroid function tests for 6-8 weeks, and thyroid function is monitored in infants and patients with thyroid disorders. Dehydration increases the risk of kidney injury; staying well hydrated is important. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications, corrected against the Iomeron label — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications, corrected against the Iomeron label: known hypersensitivity to iomeprol or excipients, and concurrent intrathecal (spinal) administration with corticosteroids. Severe thyrotoxicosis and severe renal impairment without the possibility of dialysis are also recorded as contraindications/major cautions in the clinician database, consistent with iodinated-contrast-class safety principles. Precautions should be taken in patients with a history of allergic reactions, asthma, dehydration, multiple myeloma, diabetes, or heart failure — the lowest necessary dose is used in these patients and in the elderly. Special care is needed in neonates, infants, and elderly patients.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Metformin | If your kidney function is normal, you can usually continue taking metformin as usual around the time of your scan. If you have moderate-to-severe kidney impairment, or other risk factors such as liver disease, heavy alcohol use, heart failure, or if the contrast is given into an artery, your clinician may have you stop metformin at or before the procedure and withhold it for about 48 hours afterward, restarting only once your kidney function has been re-checked and confirmed unchanged. Always follow your own clinician's specific instructions rather than a general rule. | (2) |
| Other nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., NSAIDs, aminoglycoside antibiotics) | May increase the risk of kidney injury when combined with iodinated contrast. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy is not definitively established; iomeprol is used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, and your healthcare provider will assess this before administering it. Inform your doctor if you are or might be pregnant. (2)
Breastfeeding
Only minimal amounts of iomeprol pass into breast milk, and breastfeeding is generally considered compatible with use; discuss individualized advice with your doctor. (2)
Children
Iomeron is recommended for use in adult patients; the product's own pediatric dosing is not formally established. Limited pediatric trial data exist (approximately 167 patients), showing a safety profile similar to adults, but a pediatric radiologist/specialist must determine whether and how to use it in a child. (2)
Renal_impairment
Use the lowest necessary dose in patients with renal impairment or congestive heart failure; adequate hydration and monitoring of kidney function are important. No specific numeric renal dose-adjustment table is established in the sources reviewed. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Use the lowest necessary dose in patients with renal impairment or congestive heart failure; adequate hydration and monitoring of kidney function are important. No specific numeric renal dose-adjustment table is established in the sources reviewed. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Iomeprol is stored by healthcare professionals below 30°C (86°F), protected from light and freezing.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Computed Tomography (CT) imaging
Dose summary: Available in concentrations of 250, 300, 350, and 400 mg iodine/mL. Typical procedure volumes: CT brain 50-150 mL; CT body 40-150 mL (max ~250 mL); peripheral arteriography 10-90 mL; cerebral arteriography 5-12 mL; angiocardiography 30-80 mL (max ~250 mL); coronary arteriography 4-10 mL per artery. Actual dose is individualized by the radiologist based on procedure, area examined, and body weight.
Renal context: Use the lowest necessary dose in renal impairment; ensure adequate hydration and avoid other nephrotoxic drugs until contrast is cleared. No specific numeric renal dose-adjustment table is established in the sources reviewed. (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is iomeprol used for?
Iomeprol is used as a contrast agent to improve the visibility of blood vessels, organs, and tissues during X-ray-based imaging procedures such as CT scans, angiography, and urography.
Is iomeprol safe for people with kidney problems?
Iomeprol should be used with caution in people with kidney impairment, as it may increase the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy. Your doctor will assess your kidney function before administering the drug.
Can iomeprol cause allergic reactions?
Yes, iomeprol can cause allergic or hypersensitivity reactions, ranging from mild rash to severe anaphylaxis. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergies to contrast agents.
Can I breastfeed after receiving iomeprol?
Breastfeeding is generally considered safe after receiving iomeprol, as only minimal amounts pass into breast milk. However, discuss with your doctor for individualized advice.
How long does iomeprol stay in the body?
Iomeprol is rapidly eliminated from the body, with most of the drug excreted in the urine within 24 hours.
Do I need to stop taking metformin before or after iomeprol?
If your kidney function is normal, you can usually keep taking metformin as usual. If you have kidney impairment or other risk factors, your doctor may have you stop metformin around the time of the procedure and withhold it for about 48 hours afterward, restarting only once your kidney function is re-checked. Follow your own doctor's specific instructions.
What should I do if I feel unwell after my scan?
If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, rash, or chest pain after your scan, seek immediate medical attention.
What happens if I take too much Iomeprol (contrast agent)?
Overdosing on Iomeprol is unlikely in a clinical setting as it is administered by healthcare professionals. However, excessive doses could lead to severe adverse reactions such as renal failure or cardiovascular events. If you suspect an overdose or experience unusual symptoms after administration, seek immediate emergency medical attention.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Iomeprol (contrast agent)?
It is generally advisable to avoid alcohol consumption around the time of Iomeprol administration. Alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which may increase the risk of kidney-related side effects associated with contrast agents. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding alcohol and your specific medical procedure.
Is Iomeprol (contrast agent) safe during pregnancy?
The safety of Iomeprol during pregnancy has not been definitively established. It is categorized as 'Consult doctor' regarding pregnancy. Therefore, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or suspect you might be, as they will assess the potential risks and benefits before administering Iomeprol.
What is the mechanism of action of iomeprol?
Iomeprol is a non-ionic, low-osmolar iodinated contrast agent. It works by increasing the attenuation of X-rays in blood vessels and tissues, thereby enhancing the contrast of images obtained during radiographic procedures. The iodine atoms in iomeprol absorb X-rays more than surrounding tissues, allowing for clearer differentiation between normal and abnormal structures. (2)
What is the generic name of Iomeprol?
The generic name is iomeprol. It is sold under brand names including Iomeron.
What class of drug is iomeprol?
Iomeprol is classed as: Non-ionic iodinated contrast agent.
References
- MedGuideGlobal clinician-authored medicine record - IomeprolMedGuideGlobal · Global (internal reference) · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- Iomeron (iomeprol) Injection prescribing informationDrugs.com (based on approved label) and electronic Medicines Compendium (UK) · United States and United Kingdom · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient iomeprol names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Iomeron612 mg/mL, 816 mg/mL, 714 mg/mL, 510 mg/mL · bipso gmbh
- IOMERVU816 mg/mL, 714 mg/mL · bracco diagnostics inc