Some types of MRI require using gadolinium-based contrast dye (GBCD).
GBCD is administered through a vein during the MRI, causing active MS lesions to “light up.”
How GBCDs Work
Gadoliniumis a chemical compound.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
The blood-brain barrier is largely impenetrable.
Of more concern is the possibility that the contrast material won’t be completely eliminated from the body.
How Do You Flush Contrast Dye Out of Your Body?
Drink eight glasses of water daily to help your kidneys remove the contrast dye from your urine.
Although rare, some people have an allergic reaction to gadolinium contrast.
The main symptom isitchy skin, but rashes have also been reported.
A life-threatening allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is also possible but unlikely.
MRI imaging uses magnets and radio waves.
In addition, MRI machines may be problematic for people with claustrophobia.
To minimize this risk, imaging centers increasingly use open MRI equipment.
They can tell you what is and is not safe and how to proceed best.
Is Contrast Dye Safe for People who are Pregnant or Breast Feeding?
GBCD is linked to several side effects, including nausea, headaches, dizziness, and rash.
Although these side effects are common, they tend to be mild.
Most GBCD is eliminated from the body, but trace amounts can stay behind.
Drinking lots of water after your MRI scan can help your body eliminate the contrast dye.
Rarely, severe allergic reactions to contrast dyes can occur.
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Radiological Society of America.Contrast reaction raises MRI contrast risk.
2016 Jul;51(7):447-53. doi:10.1097/RLI.0000000000000252
Mount Sinai.Frequently asked questions.
UW Medicine.If you have had contrast allergy.
UCSF Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging.CT and MR pregnancy guidelines.
McDonald RJ et al.Intracranial gadolinium deposition after contrast-enhanced MR imaging.Radiology.
