Echocardiography Contrast Agents
A contrast agent is used to enhance the pictures taken of your heart during your test. This helps the doctor to see how well your heart is working.
Please tell a member of your health care team if you want to know more about the contrast agent or if you have questions. Be sure to do this before you are given the agent.
Before Using This Agent
Tell your nurse if you have
- An allergy to agents known as Optison (perflutren protein), or Definity (octofluoro-propane).
- A known hypersensitivity to eggs, egg products, or products that contain human albumin.
- Heart shunts or “holes” in your heart.
- Heart failure that is getting worse.
- A heart attack or new chest pain within the last 24 hours.
- Heart rhythm problems in the past.
- Trouble breathing or lung disease such as COPD.
- Are pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant, or are nursing.
Proper Use of This Agent
The contrast agent is given once through your IV during the course of your test. It is short-acting. It should fully leave your system within 10-15 minutes after it is given to you. You will be asked to stay in the clinic for a total of 30 minutes. This starts at the time you are given the contrast agent. This is done so that we can watch for any signs of an allergy or side effect.
Please let the health care team know if you begin to have any of these rare side effects.
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Feeling dizzy
- Hives or rash
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 08/09/2010
Copyright © 08/09/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6645
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