Gadoteric acid

A gadolinium-based contrast agent used in MRI

Chemical structure of Gadoteric acid

Gadoteric acid is a gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance the clarity of the images. It is a macrocyclic compound, which means it has a stable ring structure that helps to reduce the risk of gadolinium release into the body.

Chemical properties

Gadoteric acid is a complex of gadolinium with the ligand DOTA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid). The chemical formula for gadoteric acid is C16H25GdN4O8, and it has a molar mass of 558.7 g/mol. The stability of the gadolinium-DOTA complex is a key factor in its safety profile as a contrast agent.

Medical use

Gadoteric acid is primarily used in MRI scans to improve the visibility of internal structures. It is administered intravenously and works by altering the magnetic properties of nearby water molecules, thereby enhancing the contrast of the images produced by the MRI scanner. This is particularly useful in imaging the brain, spine, and other soft tissues.

Safety and side effects

Gadoteric acid is generally well-tolerated, but like all contrast agents, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include headache, nausea, and dizziness. Rarely, it can cause allergic reactions or nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with severe kidney impairment. The macrocyclic structure of gadoteric acid reduces the risk of gadolinium deposition in tissues compared to linear GBCAs.

Pharmacokinetics

After intravenous administration, gadoteric acid is distributed throughout the extracellular fluid space and is not metabolized. It is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys, with a half-life of approximately 1.5 hours in individuals with normal renal function.

Related pages

• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Gadolinium
• Contrast agent
• Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis